Pope Tawadros II consecrates Coptic Orthodox Church in Grafstal, Switzerland

Pope Tawadros II of the Coptic Orthodox Church recently traveled to Switzerland to consecrate a new church in Grafstal. This event holds significant importance for the Coptic Orthodox community in the German-speaking regions of the country. Refaat Rizkallah, an accountant for the Zurich community, emphasized the symbolic and spiritual value of the consecration. The church, formerly known as St. Joseph’s Church, is now dedicated to the Virgin Mary and St. Vérene, a figure from Upper Egypt whose relics are enshrined within the building.

St. Vérene, according to tradition, was born into an aristocratic family and was baptized by St. Cheremon. She later accompanied the Legion of St. Maurice to the Alps, where she became associated with the parish of St. Victor. The former Catholic church, numbered 039, was transferred to the Coptic Orthodox Church in 2017. The community in Switzerland includes 600 to 700 families, with approximately 100 individuals attending weekly liturgies.

The Coptic Orthodox Community of Zurich, along with those in Bern, Basel, and St. Gallen, falls under the diocese of Austria and German-speaking Switzerland. The community is served by a single priest, while another official oversees the Roman-speaking Swiss communities. During his European visit, Pope Tawadros II is also set to consecrate additional churches in Dusseldorf, Germany, and London.

The Catholic Church in Switzerland operates under a “dual” system, where canonical diocesan structures coexist with ecclesiastical corporations managed under civil law. These corporations handle property, finances, and administrative matters, often with democratic governance. A recent canonical visit in 2026 led to recommendations aimed at improving pastoral care, administrative clarity, and financial management across the diocese of Lausanne, Geneva, and Fribourg.

Musicologist Christophe Bitar is preparing for a significant artistic event, with a Mass composed for choir, soloists, organ, and percussion set for a world premiere in October 2026. This performance reflects the ongoing cultural and spiritual life within the Coptic Orthodox community.

Source: Read the original report (translated from French)