Coptic Orthodox Church in Australia Allowed Abuser to Continue Working with Children Despite Allegations

Hanna* says she was sexually abused by a lay teacher from her former Coptic Orthodox Church in Australia when she was seven years old. The abuse, she claims, continued for several years and became more severe over time. Her mother eventually discovered the abuse, reported the teacher to the church, and withdrew Hanna from the class.

Two other women have also come forward to SBS News, alleging they were abused as children by a priest and another lay teacher associated with the Coptic Orthodox Church between 2008 and 2016. The abuse reportedly occurred across three different churches in three separate states. In some instances, the abuse took place while the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse was ongoing.

Hanna’s mother says she raised concerns about the teacher verbally before submitting a written report to the church in 2016. Correspondence reviewed by SBS News indicates the Australian Coptic Orthodox Church was first made aware of Hanna’s allegations in writing that year. At least four priests, including senior clergy, were informed of the allegations.

Despite the severity of the claims, the accused lay teacher was photographed and filmed teaching children at a Coptic church just days before Hanna saw the images. She says the church promised an internal investigation and that the teacher would not be working with children during that time. However, she says she never received a clear outcome from the investigation.

In 2019, clergy confirmed with Hanna that an internal investigation had been launched. Text messages she received indicated the teacher had been suspended during the process. Yet, the photos and videos she later viewed suggested the individual was still involved with children in another Coptic church.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about the handling of child sexual abuse allegations within the Coptic Orthodox Church in Australia. It raises questions about transparency, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable individuals within religious institutions. The church has not publicly commented on the matter.

The story underscores the need for institutions to prioritize the safety and well-being of children, ensuring that allegations are taken seriously and addressed promptly. It also reflects the broader challenge of confronting past misconduct and preventing its recurrence. As the church continues to grapple with these issues, the call for justice, mercy, and humble service remains as relevant as ever. Micah 6:8

Source: Read the original report