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Free of charge | View Program (PDF)
Period: November 2025 – May 2026
Meetings: Bi-weekly, Fridays 3:00-4:30 PM CET
Scheduled meetings: (2025) November 14, November 28, December 5, December 19, (20'26) January 9, January 23, February 6, February 20, March 6, March 20, April 17, May 8, May 22
Platform: Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Requirements: Basic knowledge of Coptic grammar and morphology; Ability to read simple Coptic texts; Commitment to regular attendance; Good command of English (working language)
How sessions work: Prior to each class, a brief introduction to the historical and literary characteristics of the texts will be provided. All study materials will be available as digital resources. Participants who attend at least 80% of the study meetings will receive a certificate of completion.
Coordinators: Lothar Vogel, Vittorio Secco, GianMarco Schiesaro
Participation: Free of charge
Registration: Complete the online form https://bit.ly/reading-coptic-form
Information: Contact copticstudies@facoltavaldese.org
The Reading Coptic Texts Program offers a unique opportunity for students and scholars to engage with Coptic texts in a collaborative learning environment. Meeting regularly from November through May, participants explore a variety of Coptic literary works, from biblical texts to hagiographic and documentary sources.
What We Offer
Guided reading sessions with expert facilitators
Interactive discussions on language, grammar, and interpretation
International community of Coptic language enthusiasts
Flexible online participation via Zoom
Regular meetings throughout the academic year
Who Should Join
The Reading Group is designed for:
Students who have completed an introductory Coptic course
Scholars looking to maintain and improve their reading skills
Anyone with basic knowledge of Coptic interested in collaborative study
Participants from previous Summer Schools wanting to continue their learning
Q: What level of Coptic is required?
A: You should be comfortable reading simple Coptic texts with the help of a dictionary. Completion of an introductory Coptic course (such as our Summer School Introduction) is recommended.
Q: Can I join mid-year?
A: While we encourage joining from the beginning, late registration may be possible depending on space availability. Contact us for information.
Q: Is there a fee?
A: Participation is completely free of charge.
Q: How much time should I dedicate outside of meetings?
A: The preparation time varies depending on your Coptic knowledge and familiarity with the texts. Materials are distributed about one week before each session, and participants should review the text beforehand to make the most of our discussions.
Q: How do the reading sessions work?
A: We typically use one of two collaborative approaches:
- Breakout groups : Participants work in small groups for about 30 minutes, translating assigned sentences, then reconvene to discuss translations together in plenary.
- Collective reading : The text is translated section by section, with participants volunteering to take turns.
You're never required to translate or speak — no one will be called upon unexpectedly. However, we encourage active participation as it enhances the learning experience for everyone. Our group welcomes participants at all proficiency levels. More advanced readers often help those with less experience, creating a supportive learning environment. Remember: we're all here to learn together, so don't hesitate to contribute regardless of your level.
Q: Will I receive a certificate?
A: Participants who attend at least 80% of sessions will receive a certificate of participation.
READING COPTIC TEXTS 2025-2026 | Reshaping Authority: an Anthology of Ancient and Medieval Coptic Traditions of Hagiography and Apocrypha | View Program (PDF)
READING COPTIC TEXTS 2024-2025 | Angels in Coptic Literature: A Selection of Ancient Writings | View Program (PDF)
READING COPTIC TEXTS 2023-2024 | Between Prayer and Magic: a Selection of Ancient Euchological Writings in Coptic | View Program (PDF)
READING COPTIC TEXTS 2022-2023 | Selected Discourses of Shenoute | View Program (PDF)