Very Reverend, Archdeacon Athansius Awad

Archdeacon Athanasius Awad, formerly known as Karam Awad, was born on October 11, 1954, in Cairo, Egypt. Growing up in the vibrant spiritual and cultural environment of Cairo, he developed a deep connection to the Coptic Orthodox Church from an early age. He graduated in 1978 from the University of Cairo Business School, where he acquired a strong foundation in business principles that later complemented his leadership roles both within the church and in secular life.

Before immigrating to the United States in September 1980, Archdeacon Athanasius faithfully served at St. Mary Church in El Damsheria (Misr El Kadima), where he was the head servant for the Junior High youth group. His role involved mentoring young members, organizing spiritual programs, and fostering a vibrant church community, laying the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to church service.

Upon immigrating to the United States, Archdeacon Athanasius settled in New York and successfully established himself as a business owner, managing a well-regarded business in Manhattan, NY. This venture not only allowed him to provide for his family but also enabled him to engage with a diverse community, further developing his interpersonal skills and community leadership.

From 1980 to 1995, he served as a subdeacon and servant in St. Abraam Church in Long Island, NY, and the broader Coptic community. During this period, his commitment to spiritual service and community building was evident as he helped support the growing immigrant population adjusting to life in America.

In 1994, Archdeacon Athanasius played a pivotal role as one of the founding servants of St. George Coptic Orthodox Church in Astoria, New York. His vision and leadership helped establish the parish as a cornerstone for Coptic Orthodox believers in the region, fostering growth in faith, community activities, and cultural preservation.

For nearly a quarter-century, from 1997 until 2021, Archdeacon Athanasius served as Head Servant of all services in the church and Servants’ Trustee at St. George Church in Astoria, NY, providing oversight, training, and guidance to the servant and youth ministry. His dedication to nurturing servant leadership has positively influenced countless parishioners, helping to build a strong foundation for future church leaders. In addition to this role, he has been serving on the administrative board of the church since 1994, contributing to important decisions that shape the direction and ministry of the parish. 

In October 2017, Archdeacon Athanasius was called by God to be ordained as a consecrated full deacon in October 2017 by HG Bishop David. His ministry further expanded when he was elevated to the rank of Archdeacon in July 2023 by HG Bishop David, an honor bestowed upon those who exemplify steadfast faith, leadership, and dedication to the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Beyond his ecclesiastical duties, Archdeacon Athanasius is deeply committed to humanitarian efforts. He co-founded the Theodora Mission, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children with special needs in Egypt. This mission was inspired by his daughter, Theodora, who was born with cerebral palsy. Recognizing the disparities in care between the U.S. and Egypt, he worked with church leaders and local and international donors to provide essential services such as physical and occupational therapy, medical care, parental education, home visits, transportation, and recreational activities. The mission empowers children with special needs and their families, equipping them with vital life skills and hope for a better future, currently with over 10 centers across Egypt.

Archdeacon Athanasius continues to pursue his theological education at the St. Archdeacon Habib Girgis Theological Institute, where he studies theology, church history, ecclesiology, church rituals, and other related subjects. His commitment to lifelong learning reflects his desire to deepen his understanding of the faith and better serve his community through knowledge and wisdom.

Archdeacon Athanasius is happily married to Mrs. Mary Awad, and together they have raised three children: Anthony, Abraam, and Theodora, who remain a central part of his life and inspiration, and a beautiful granddaughter, Anastasia.