The word “Copt” is derived from the Greek word “Aigyptos,” which comes from “Hikaptah,” one of the names of Memphis, the first capital city of Ancient Egypt. Now, the term “Coptic” is used to describe the Christian population in Egypt.

Today the Copts are the minority in Egypt – approximately 15%-17% of the population. 24% of the Coptic population lives in extreme poverty, barely meeting their basic needs. These people experience the worst conditions of malnutrition, disease, and a lack of education. The people most affected by these conditions are widows, children, the disabled, and the chronically ill.