Habib Girgis: Coptic Orthodox Educator and a Light in the Darkness (Coptic Studies, 2)

Bishop Suriel’s 890-page doctoral dissertation at Fordham University (2014) revealed (with academic authority) certain important aspects of modern Egyptian Christian life, tracing its progress throughout the first half of the 20th Century and its continuing impact today. His dissertation work provides the backbone for this new, 296-page publication by the prestigious St. Vladimir’s Press: a masterwork on the life and legacy of Habib Girgis.This scholarly yet fascinating and accessible book articulates many historical, social, theological, and educational points; from the birth of Habib Girgis in 1876 to his canonization by the Coptic Orthodox Church in 2013. The book shows how Girgis’ vision for reform embraced the entire Coptic community. Among many significant reformation roles, Girgis was the founder of the Coptic Sunday School Movement in 1900 and led the renewal and progress of religious education in Egypt, from public and private schools through Coptic seminaries.As such, Bishop Suriel’s biography of this widely influential reformer marks a major success in Coptology and studies of modern Egypt. In addition to its historical and religious content, the biography includes an extensive collection of rare photographs and documents from the Coptic Patriarchal Archives in Cairo. Indeed, through this new book, the meaning of current Coptic struggles and resilience can be understood.- S. Michael Saad, Managing Editor, Claremont Coptic Encyclopedia

Excellent book that brings to life the legacy of one of the most revolutionary figures of a generation. The author describes the life, work, vision and dreams of St. Habib in both a detailed and refreshingly relevant manner. It serves as a key way to understand our past, as well as a blueprint for our future in education. May God give us the wisdom, passion, faithfulness and courage of St. Habib, by the prayers of His Grace Bishop Suriel.

This book is awesome!I highly recommend it!

This book is phenomenal. It is truly a gem and worth buying. This is a loving compilation of many years of research by Bishop Suriel and gave me so much information about Saint Habib Girgis that I did not know. My favorite part about this book is the historical pictures.

a great book about a great Saint written by a great author

Very informative book useful to have in a persons library