Father Andrew Awad has established the church and has faithfully ministered since 2012. He was ordained on November 11, 2008, by Thrice-Blessed Pope Shenouda III of Blessed Memory, following many years of lay service in youth ministry and Sunday School.
Born in Cairo, Egypt, in 1970, Father Andrew moved to the United States and earned a Bachelor of Science from the College of Staten Island. Before his full-time ministry, he worked in the technology and media fields, with experience in CPC and CIR Certification, web design, and digital media.
He is married to Dr. Lilian Youssef—Awad, and together they are blessed with four children: Marielle, Michelle, Gabrielle, and Matthew.
Father Andrew’s ministry is rooted in Holy Scripture, the teachings of the Church Fathers, and the deep conviction that the Church is a place of healing, transformation, and truth. He strives to present the Gospel with pastoral care, humility, and clarity—believing that every soul deserves to encounter Christ in love.
In recognition of his faithful ministry, Father Andrew was elevated to the rank of Hegumen by His Grace Bishop David, Bishop of the Diocese of New York and New England, on December 9, 2023.
In addition to his parish responsibilities, Fr. Andrew serves the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New York and New England as the Diocesan Secretary and Secretary of the Clerical Council. He contributes to various diocesan committees, including IT & Media, the Children’s Ministry, the Standing Committee, and the Priests’ Family Committee.
Father Andrew earned a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Counseling and Spiritual Care from Fordham University. He is a licensed mental health counselor in Connecticut. Fr. Andrew is currently completing his Doctor of Ministry (DMin). His project, titled: “Strength and Dignity Are Her Clothing: Listening to Women’s Voices in the Coptic Orthodox Church in North America,” reflects his pastoral commitment to listening, learning, and growing the Church in compassion and spiritual wisdom.
Father Andrew continues to serve Christ’s flock with a shepherd’s heart—drawing strength from prayer, the liturgy, and the grace of the Holy Spirit. He desires to help every soul grow in faith, healing, and communion with God.