New York Consolidated Laws, Religious Corporations Law - RCO § 451. Definitions

1. “Coptic Orthodox Church” refers to the Apostolic Church presided over by His Holiness, the Pope of Alexandria (Egypt) and the Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, the legislative body of which is known as the Holy Synod.  The Coptic Orthodox Church is a hierarchical church.

2. “Holy Synod” is the highest legislative and executive authority in the Coptic Orthodox Church, presided over by His Holiness, the Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of the See of St. Mark and is more formally known as “The Holy Synod for the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria and the See of St. Mark.”

3. “The Synodical Committee for the Coptic Churches in Immigration” is, according to the constitution and bylaws of the Holy Synod, formed and presided over by His Holiness, the Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of the See of St. Mark from among the members of the Holy Synod, to assist him in marshalling the affairs of the churches abroad.

4. “Unincorporated Coptic Orthodox Church” in this state and a “Coptic Orthodox Church” heretofore incorporated in this state refers to a church, cathedral, chapel or other religious organization founded and established for the purpose of and with the intent of adhering to, and being subject to the administrative jurisdiction of the Synodical Committee for the Coptic Churches in Immigration.

5. A “Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese” refers to that person who is serving as such bishop pursuant to the authority of and in accordance with the rules and regulations of Synodical Committee for the Coptic Churches in Immigration.  In accordance with the laws of the Holy Synod, the Pope of Alexandria (Egypt) is the presiding bishop of any new diocese during the foundation period and until a bishop is ordained for such diocese.  Likewise, and pursuant to such laws, the Pope of Alexandria (Egypt) is the presiding bishop of any existing diocese which has no bishop.