koptilaisia

Koptilaiset, or Copts, are Egyptian Christians primarily members of the Coptic Orthodox Church and other Coptic churches. The term derives from the Greek Aigyptos via Latin Coptus, and in Finnish usage it denotes Coptic Christians.

The Coptic Orthodox Church traces its origins to early Christianity in Egypt. Tradition holds that Saint Mark the Evangelist founded the Alexandrian church in the 1st century, making it one of the oldest Christian communities. After the Council of Chalcedon in 451, it remained part of the Oriental Orthodox communion and upholds Miaphysite Christology. Arabic became the dominant language in daily life after the Arab conquest, while Coptic persisted in liturgy.

The largest body is the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. The Pope of Alexandria is its spiritual leader; the current pope is Tawadros II (since 2012). The church has bishops, monastic communities, and a strong tradition of lay and clerical leadership. Sacraments include baptism, confirmation, Eucharist, penance, anointing of the sick, marriage, and ordination. Liturgy is conducted in Arabic and Coptic, and the community preserves distinctive music, art, and feast days; Christmas is celebrated on January 7.

Globally, Copts number in the millions, with the majority in Egypt and sizable diasporas in North America, Europe, Africa, and Australia. In Egypt, koptilaiset form a religious minority. They have faced periods of discrimination and violence but also contribute to society and participate in interfaith dialogue and civic life.