About Us
Learn about our story, our faith, and our mission.
Our Story
The Coptic Orthodox Church of the Ascension was established to serve the growing Orthodox community in Northern Ontario, including Georgina and East Gwillimbury. Under the guidance of Fr. Mercurius Gorgy, our church has become a spiritual home for families seeking authentic Orthodox worship in English.
Our name — "Church of the Ascension" — reflects our upward calling to Christ and our mission to lift up communities in faith, hope, and love. What began as a small group of faithful has grown into a vibrant parish that reaches far beyond its walls.
Today, we serve not only our local parish but also Indigenous communities, the homeless, and families across Northern Ontario through our outreach programs. We are truly a "Ministry With No Walls."
Our Vision
To be a light of Christ in Northern Ontario — reaching every soul with the Gospel through education, evangelism, and English services, while preserving the beauty and depth of Orthodox tradition.
Our Beliefs
Rooted in the Apostolic Faith
We believe in One God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — the Holy Trinity.
We hold to the Nicene Creed as the foundation of our faith.
We follow the teachings of the Church Fathers and the Seven Ecumenical Councils.
The Coptic Orthodox Church was founded by St. Mark the Apostle in Alexandria, Egypt, in 42 AD.
We celebrate the seven Holy Sacraments: Baptism, Chrismation, Communion, Confession, Unction of the Sick, Matrimony, and Priesthood.
Meet the Priest
Fr. Mercurius Gorgy
Parish Priest
Fr. Mercurius serves with deep love and dedication, shepherding the faithful in Northern Ontario. His passion for teaching, evangelism, and pastoral care drives everything we do. He is committed to making Orthodox Christianity accessible, welcoming, and transformative for current and future generations.
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