Bishop Emmanuel Bishay says Church in Egypt runs formation programs for youths

Bishop Emmanuel Bishay of the Coptic Catholic Eparchy of Luxor said the Catholic Church in Egypt uses formation programs and social initiatives to help young people remain in the faith. Speaking to Aid to the Church in Need, Bishay noted that the Church provides catechesis to deepen faith and creates opportunities for young Catholics to meet and build relationships.

Bishay identified marriage as a specific challenge for the Church. He explained that when a Catholic man or woman marries an Orthodox person, they may be required to follow Orthodox Church requirements. While Bishay stated that official relations between the Catholic and Orthodox churches are good and characterized by mutual affection, these marriage requirements can lead young people to leave the Catholic Church.