Baptism and the Position of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Rebaptism of converts from other Christian traditions and Its Ecumenical Impact
2024 (English)Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 180 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
This study explores the practice of re-baptism, in the Coptic Orthodox Church focusing on its ecclesiastical and pastoral aspects as well as its impact on relationships with other Christian groups. While there have been agreements between Pope Shenouda III and Pope Tawadros II regarding recognizing the baptism of Catholics many bishops, priests, and members of the Coptic Orthodox Church still advocate for re-baptism for individuals converting from denominations. The research aims to clarify the church's position on rebaptism, understand why some support this practice, and assess its influence on the church's identity and interactions with communities. Through an approach involving analysis of texts, church documents, official agreements and interviews with church representatives and congregation members this study sheds light on how re-baptism is practiced within Coptic Orthodox communities and its effects on church unity and relationships with other denominations. The findings highlight the balance between adherence, cultural traditions and pastoral concerns that maintain the tradition of re-baptism despite contradictory official agreements. This research contributes to conversations about unity and dialogue among denominations by offering an examination of re practices, in the context of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The challenges and opportunities of fostering cooperation and shared comprehension, among communities are underscored by providing insights into the spiritual influences affecting re-baptism practices, in the contemporary era.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2024. , p. 41
Keywords [sv]
Re-Baptism, Coptic Orthodox Church, Theological Justifications, Ecumenical Relations, Sacramental Theology, Pastoral Care, Interdenominational Dialogue
National Category
Religious Studies
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:ths:diva-2762OAI: oai:DiVA.org:ths-2762DiVA, id: diva2:1948502
Subject / course
Eastern Christian Theology
Educational program
Pedagogical Program - Religious Educator: Eastern Christian Studies
Supervisors
Examiners
2025-04-022025-03-312025-04-02Bibliographically approved