Reverend, Fr. Yostos Bessada
Father Yostos Bessada, formerly known as Paul Bessada, was born on November 13, 1976, in Cairo, Egypt. He spent his early years in Cairo, deeply rooted in the Coptic Orthodox faith, before moving to Staten Island, New York, when he was 15 years old. Coming from a family devoted to the Church, with his uncle, Fr. Wissa Bessada, Father Yostos was inspired from a young age to live a life grounded in faith and service.
After graduating from Tottenville High School, he pursued higher education at the College of Staten Island and Pace University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Starting in 2002, he built a successful career in information technology, working as a Desktop Engineer at Schulte Roth & Zabel and later holding higher management positions at IMMOnline and Abacus Group.
Fr. Yostos’s passion for community and youth ministry is evident in his foundational role in starting the North American Coptic League in 2002, a fellowship and basketball league that unites young Coptic Orthodox Christians across North America in faith and fellowship. Today, over 20 churches in the tri-state area participate in this league, with over 1,100 players across 6 divisions.
Father Yostos’s journey into ordained ministry was not one he sought, but rather a calling he humbly accepted. He was called to the diaconate in June 2020 by the hands of HG Bishop David as a general deacon with a special assignment to serve at St. George Coptic Orthodox Church in Astoria, New York.
After serving in St. George Astoria’s parish for over 2 years as a general deacon, he was nominated and called to the priesthood, where he was ordained on July 30, 2022, as a general priest assigned to serve in this parish. On July 15, 2023, by His Grace Bishop David, he was unanimously voted to serve in St. George Astoria’s parish. Since then, he has served faithfully, providing pastoral care, leading liturgical services, and nurturing his congregation’s spiritual growth.
Fr. Yostos graduated from the St. Habib Girgis Institute in 2022, completing extensive theological studies focused on Coptic theology, rituals, history, and more. His academic contributions were recognized in 2023 when he was appointed a professor of ecclesiology, playing a vital role in the education and formation of future clergy and lay leaders.
In addition to his parish duties, Fr. Yostos serves on the Diocesan Committee of Sunday School, where he contributes to the development and oversight of educational programs that nurture the faith of Coptic Orthodox youth across the diocese.
Married to the love of his life, Rimonda, since 2016, Fr. Yostos balances his family life with his priestly ministry and academic roles. His rare blend of technical skill, pastoral leadership, theological scholarship, and community engagement enables him to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds.
Father Yostos Bessada remains a respected and humble servant, dedicated to advancing the faith, unity, and spiritual growth of the Coptic Orthodox community both locally and throughout the diaspora.