Coptic Orthodox Church Destroyed in Surrey, B.C.SURREY, B.C. – With immense sadness and pain, the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Mississauga, Vancouver, and Western Canada confirms that St. George Coptic Orthodox Church, located at 13905 108 Avenue, Surrey, BC, was destroyed earlier this morning by fire. While this matter remains under investigation, there was an attempted arson on Wednesday, July 14, 2021, that was reported to the RCMP with video evidence. The timing of this fire today is more than circumstantial and therefore raises many questions about what the authorities did to protect our church, especially considering the attempt on the same church this past Wednesday. We call on the Honourable Premier John Horgan and all authorities in the Province of British Columbia to immediately and expeditiously conclude this investigation.

While today is a day of sadness, we will not be deterred and we will rebuild. Our church will always be open for all and continue to be a beacon of light and hope for all in our community.

Bishop Mina,

Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Mississauga, Vancouver, and Western Canada