Egyptian Governor Abdullah Abdul Aziz bid farewell to Pope Tawadros II at "Ezbet Jafar" village, marking the end of his pastoral visit to Beni Suef governorate. The Pope's visit, which lasted seven days, included stops in Minya and Beni Suef governorates, where he met with local clergy and officials. During his visit, the Pope carried out various pastoral works, including visiting dioceses and monasteries, inaugurating three churches, and holding seven meetings with groups of priests, monks, nuns, and consecrated virgins.
The Pope's visit included stops in the dioceses of Malwi, Ansna, and Al-Ashmunin in Minya governorate, as well as the dioceses of Biba, Al-Fashn, and Samusta in Beni Suef governorate. He also visited the Monastery of the Virgin Mary and Archangel Michael in Bahnsa, and the Monastery of Saint Samuel the Confessor in the Qalmon Mountains. The Pope expressed his gratitude to security personnel in Minya and Beni Suef governorates for their efforts in ensuring the smooth execution of his visit.
A national meeting was held in Beni Suef to mark the end of the Pope's historic visit to the dioceses of Biba, Al-Fashn, and Samusta. The meeting was attended by Beni Suef Governor, Deputy Governor Bilal Habash, and security officials. Also in attendance were several high-ranking clergy, including Bishop Istefanos of Biba, Al-Fashn, and Samusta, and Bishop Gabriel of Beni Suef and its dependencies.
The meeting was also attended by Dr. Tariq Ali, acting president of Beni Suef University, and Dr. Hussam Al-Malihi, president of the Nahda University. Several members of the Egyptian parliament and media representatives were also present. The Pope's visit was seen as a significant event, highlighting the importance of national unity and interfaith dialogue.
In his farewell remarks, Beni Suef Governor Abdullah Abdul Aziz welcomed Pope Tawadros, saying that his presence in the governorate was a cherished occasion that would be remembered for its spiritual and national significance. The Governor emphasized that the true strength of Egyptians lies in their cohesion, and that the meeting reflected the concept of true citizenship.
Pope Tawadros expressed his gratitude to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for his efforts in promoting national unity and citizenship. The Pope also thanked the Governor and officials of Beni Suef governorate for their warm hospitality during his visit. He emphasized that love and cooperation are essential for the growth of life and the continuation of building.
The Pope's visit concluded with an expression of appreciation for the developmental efforts underway in Egypt. The visit highlighted the importance of collaboration between all sectors of society in building the nation and preparing future generations. Key aspects of the visit included the Pope's meetings with local communities and officials, as well as the inauguration of new churches and service projects.
Key points
- The Pope's 7-day visit covered several governorates, including Minya and Beni Suef.
- The visit included various pastoral works, such as church inaugurations and meetings with clergy.
- The Pope emphasized the importance of national unity, citizenship, and interfaith dialogue during his visit.
