A Church Covered with Badger Skins
While all Coptic Orthodox churches share the same liturgy, rites, and spirit of service, some still refer to the Church of St. Mark in Jersey City as “a church covered with badger skins.” You may wonder—why speak of this church specifically? And what does that phrase mean? Allow me to share personal reflections that may help you understand why this image holds such deep meaning.
I cherish all churches and deeply respect every servant of the Lord. Yet, following the example of St. Paul, I cannot help but magnify the ministry entrusted to me in my weakness (Romans 11:13). In doing so, I proclaim the mighty work of God and give glory to His holy name.
In 1995, the Thrice-Blessed of Memory, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, called me to serve this church. At the time, many beloved friends in Egypt were waiting for my return to continue serving in the Church of the Virgin Mary in Ard El-Golf, Cairo. News of my move to Jersey City left some disheartened. One friend even called me, scoffing: “Are you going to serve in the garage?” His words stung. But I replied, “I am not even worthy to serve in the manger of Bethlehem.”
Jersey City, for many immigrants, is a place of transition and hope. With its proximity to Manhattan, its public transportation, and its high concentration of Egyptian families, it offers a taste of home. But for my young children and me—who were not new immigrants—the move came as a shock. By human logic, it made no sense to leave Ard El-Golf or Colorado for Jersey City. But God’s plan always surpasses our understanding.
What awaited us was not easy. The church building was outdated and structurally inadequate. Its doors were narrow, the staircases unsafe, and the restrooms in poor condition. I remember saying to H.H. Pope Shenouda III, “When I first entered the church, I felt like I was walking into a prison.” But by the grace of God and the love of the people, we made necessary renovations. May the Lord reward all who labored in love to restore this sacred space.
Yet the greater challenge was not the building—it was the state of the congregation. Division and discord reigned, with some leaders stirring strife. But the voice of the Holy Spirit was louder than theirs. God, in His compassion, gathered those who had been scattered and brought peace once more.
From day one, I saw this church as my place of witness and martyrdom. The altar has absorbed countless tears—poured out in prayer for every soul, especially those who caused harm. God’s response was astounding. Some of the church’s children were called to the priesthood and monastic life. Many became faithful deacons and servants. Even the youngest among us rejoiced in the Lord, serving in their diaconal robes and reading Scripture with joy. Others excelled in education and careers. Glory be to God for the work He has done in their lives!
Despite these blessings, some still view the Church of St. Mark as a church “covered with badger skins.” This image is drawn from Exodus 26:14, where the Lord commands that the Tabernacle be covered with ram skins dyed red and badger skins—an outer layer that was dull and unattractive. From the outside, the Tabernacle appeared unsightly, but within, it was adorned with gold, and more importantly, it housed the very presence of God.
Likewise, some dismiss our church because it is less visually appealing, less conveniently located, or filled with newly arrived immigrants. But these criticisms miss the spiritual essence of the Church. What some see as flaws are, in fact, marks of its sanctity. Christ was not born in a palace but in a manger. What matters is not the place, but the One who dwells there. I have encountered Christ in this church—in the tears of the suffering, the poor, the wounded, and the faithful.
Distance should not be a deterrent to worship. The Israelites traveled long distances to appear before God at His appointed feasts (Deuteronomy 16:16). They rejoiced in going to His house (Psalm 122:1-2), even when the journey was hard. So too must we.
As for our many newly arrived brethren, they are not a burden—they are Christ among us. Our church became a refuge for them, offering love and support. To serve them is to serve Christ Himself (Matthew 25:40).
Some today distinguish between “wealthy churches” and “poor churches.” But true wealth is not measured by income, but by the richness of God’s presence. As St. Paul said, “as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things” (2 Corinthians 6:10). Luxury can dull the spirit, but in our simplicity, the Spirit of God provides all our needs in due time.
Over the years, I have discovered that this church is no garage and no prison—it is a dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. From the beginning, we clung to the promise:
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts. ‘Who are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you shall become a plain!’” (Zechariah 4:6–7)
This church has raised children in the Gospel. It has resisted the sway of worldly currents and held fast to sound doctrine. Bible classes, sermons, and Sunday School are all grounded in the teachings of Scripture and the early Church Fathers. Many of our children are being taught by the Lord Himself, as promised:
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.” (Isaiah 54:13)
And beyond its walls, the Church of St. Mark speaks to the world. Through satellite TV and the internet, the Gospel message flows forth—feeding thousands with the Word of Life. As the Psalmist declared:
“Their line has gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.” (Psalm 19:4)
None of this would have been possible without the foundation laid by the late Hegumen Fr. Gabriel Abdelsayed, who served for over 23 years. Since then, the Holy Spirit has brought together priests, servants, deacons, and faithful members in a divine symphony of love and service. May the Lord reward each one.
By faith, I hear the Lord speaking to this beloved church:
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you... thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)And with Nehemiah, I proclaim:“Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” (Nehemiah 2:17)
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