History

1962
His Holiness Pope Kyrollos VI, very much aware of the difficult social and economic conditions of the time in Egypt, takes a progressive step in the history of the Coptic Orthodox Church. His Holiness institutes the Bishopric of Public, Ecumenical, and Social Services (BLESS Egypt) by ordaining His Grace Bishop Samuel as its first Director. Thus BLESS Egypt was officially established as an organized service of the church.

BLESS focuses its activities towards various outreach services.

1977
BLESS Egypt officially establishes the office of Social Services to lessen the disparity that developed between the rich and the poor.

1985
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III appoints His Grace Bishop Serapion to oversee BLESS Egypt.

1989
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III visits the United States.  In response to a desire of the Coptic Orthodox Community in the United States to help their needy brothers and sisters in Egypt, His Holiness establishes BLESS USA, with offices in California and New Jersey.

1995
His Grace Bishop Youannes is appointed to oversee BLESS.  

1997
BLESS USA merges its offices and establishes its headquarters at the Coptic Orthodox Church Archdiocese of North America in Cedar Grove, NJ.

2002
BLESS celebrates 40 years of service.