[On screen only:] In the memory of the 21 martyrs of Libya.
This February marks the 10th anniversary of the Copts martyred in Libya: 21 men who stood firm in their faith, unwavering in the face of death. Their story is not just about loss, but about courage, devotion, and the unshakable power of faith. For over 2 000 years, the Coptic Orthodox Church has endured trials, hardships and persecution. From the earliest Roman oppressions to the challenges of today, the Church has never wavered. Like St. Paul, we declare with confidence: We boast in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 For we are, as many others, a nation of the cross: a people whose strength is found not in worldly power, but in the eternal promise of Christ.
The Libya martyrs were ordinary men, sons, fathers, brothers, who left their homeland in search of a better future for their families. They never imagined that their journey would lead them to martyrdom. Yet in their final moments, faced with the ultimate test of faith, they did not deny Christ. Instead, they spoke His name: my Lord, Jesus. It was not just a whisper of fear: it was a proclamation of victory. They were crowned not with earthly glory, but with the unfading crown of the kingdom of heaven.
These martyrs are the seeds of our faith, just as the martyrs of the early Church were. Their blood does not silence the Church: it strengthens it. It is their sacrifice that keeps the Church alive, unshaken and growing. Their story is a reminder that the faith we hold today was purchased with the lives of those who came before us.
I have personally met some of their family members and I was deeply moved by their strength. They do not grieve as those without hope. Their sorrow is real, but their faith is even greater. They know that their loved ones are not lost, but victorious in Christ. Their unwavering trust in God, even in their suffering, is a testimony that reaches beyond words.
The Coptic Church was founded in the1 st century by St. Mark the Apostle and yet many in the West still know little about her. But in recent decades, she has spread across new lands, carrying with her the ancient faith that has endured for generations. Since her arrival, many have found comfort in her prayers, in her teachings and her deep unwavering devotion to Christ. Faith like this does not fade. It does not weaken. It only grows.
1 In reference to Galatians 6:14
The blood of the martyrs has always been the seed of the Church. And today, as we remember these 21 men, we stand upon the foundation they helped to build. To the world, their story may seem like tragedy, but to us, it is a story of triumph. Because in Christ, death is not the end: it is only the beginning. These movie clips are from an incredible short video that has been done in their memory. The link is in the description and we encourage you to watch it. Like those martyrs, may we too remain faithful until the end!
Other suggested video:
The 21 (official film on the 21 martyrs of Libya) written and directed by Tod Polson, 2024