21 Martyrs: Knelt but Not Broken
Coptic Orphans, in partnership with Museum of the Bible, is organizing this one-of-a-kind cinematic experience to honor 21 ordinary men from Egypt who made an extraordinary choice: when asked to deny Christ or face a brutal death, they chose faith. Their story has reverberated across the globe, inspiring millions and becoming a symbol of modern-day martyrdom.
This event invites you to explore the foundations of the early church as seen through the lived witness of today’s Coptic community of Egypt.
Special Guest: Jonathan Roumie, beloved for his portrayal of Jesus in The Chosen, will be joining us in person to share his experience producing The 21 film and meeting the families of the martyrs during his recent trip to Egypt.
Dinner Honoree: His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan will join the dinner portion of the evening, where he will be honored with the Coptic Orphans’ Leading by Example Award in recognition of his longstanding service and impact on the church nationally and globally.
This immersive three-part experience includes a walk-through display tracing the heritage of the Coptic people and the story of the 21 martyrs; a seated theater screening of The 21 animated film, with live remarks from Jonathan Roumie, the producers, and a martyr’s relative; and a plated dinner featuring a Q&A with Roumie and the presentation of the award to Cardinal Dolan.
Early-bird pricing closed December 1.
The dress code for the evening is cocktail attire.
Feb 22, 2026 - Feb 22, 2026
3:00 PM - 7:30 PM EST
Gathering Room & World Stage Theater
Includes Admission
Display and Theater Only $150
Display, Theater, and Dinner $400
In Person Event
Ticket Options
Display and Theater Only
Enjoy the walk-through display on the Coptic people and the 21 martyrs, The 21 film by MORE productions, a live interview with Jonathan Roumie, a testimony from a martyr’s relative, and a live musical experience. A general admission ticket to the museum is also included in this purchase.
Display, Theater, and Dinner
In addition to the evening’s events, join Jonathan Roumie and for a plated dinner, a special Q&A session, and the honoring of His Eminence Cardinal Dolan. A general admission ticket to the museum is also included in this purchase.
Schedule
3:00 p.m.: Doors Open
3:00–6:00 p.m.: Display Walk-Through and Theater Program
6:00–7:30 p.m.: Dinner (optional add-on)
Featured Speaker
Jonathan Roumie
Jonathan Roumie, an acclaimed actor of Egyptian heritage, is best known for portraying Jesus in The Chosen. He holds a film degree from the School of Visual Arts and received an honorary doctorate from the Catholic University of America in 2024 for his contributions to faith-based storytelling.
Roumie’s journey with the story of the 21 Coptic martyrs of Egypt began when he encountered their powerful witness of faith. Moved by their courage, he partnered with MORE Productions as executive producer of The 21, an animated film honoring the martyrs’ sacrifice. His involvement deepened when he learned about Coptic Orphans, a Virginia-based nonprofit serving vulnerable children in Egypt—including the children of the martyrs themselves.
In 2025, Roumie traveled to Egypt with Coptic Orphans, where he met the families of the martyrs and witnessed firsthand the impact of their legacy. At the event, Roumie will share his experience producing The 21 and reflect on his encounters with the martyrs’ families.
Meet the Honoree
His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop Emeritus of New York
Timothy Cardinal Dolan was appointed Archbishop of New York in 2009 and elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI.
A native of St. Louis, Cardinal Dolan was ordained in 1976 and holds advanced degrees in theology and church history. His early ministry included parish service, contributions to seminary education, and a term as secretary to the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, DC.
Cardinal Dolan previously served as Archbishop of Milwaukee, rector of the Pontifical North American College in Rome, and president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. He also participated in the conclaves that elected Pope Francis (2013) and Pope Leo XIV (2025).
Following his retirement in 2025, Cardinal Dolan now serves as Archbishop Emeritus of New York and remains active in his ministry as a cardinal, bishop, and priest.
The 21©2024