On Monday, September 21, 2026, Pope Tawadros II led a spiritual visit to the city of Fashn in the Beni Suef governorate of Egypt. The Pope inaugurated the churches of Saint Joseph the Carpenter and Saint Athanasius the Apostolic at the historic Virgin Mary Church in Fashn. This event was part of his pastoral visit to the Eparchies of Biba, Fashn, and Samasta, during which he interacted with the local community and clergy.
The inauguration ceremony included prayers and the consecration of the altar and icons within the churches. The Pope was greeted warmly by the congregation, and he expressed his appreciation for the beauty of the church and the warmth of its people. In his address, Pope Tawadros emphasized the role of the church in the lives of believers, highlighting its significance as a place of worship, learning, and community.
During his sermon, Pope Tawadros outlined four key roles of the church: a place of the Holy Word, where believers learn the Gospel and live according to God's commandments; a place of holy doctrine, where faith is passed down from generation to generation; a place of holy sacrifice, where believers encounter Christ through sacraments and communion; and a place of holy fellowship, where believers live in communion with saints and support one another in a life of holiness.
Following the sermon, Bishop Stephen delivered a message of gratitude to Pope Tawadros on behalf of the congregation. The visit also included the opening of a library at the Virgin Mary Church, which was inspected by the Pope. The library aims to provide spiritual and educational resources to the community.
Pope Tawadros' visit to Fashn is part of his ongoing pastoral tour of various eparchies and monasteries in Upper Egypt. This tour has included visits to the Eparchies of Malawy, Anshun, and Al-Ashmunin, as well as several monasteries. The Pope's engagements are aimed at strengthening the spiritual bonds between the church leadership and the local communities.
The visit was marked by enthusiasm and joy from the local population, with many attendees expressing their gratitude for the Pope's presence. The event concluded with a sense of spiritual renewal and community solidarity. Local officials and clergy participated in the events, underscoring the significance of the visit to the region.
The churches inaugurated by Pope Tawadros in Fashn are expected to serve as centers for spiritual growth and community development. The Pope's visit highlighted the importance of these institutions in fostering a deeper connection between the church and its followers. The events in Fashn reflect the ongoing efforts of the church to engage with and support its communities across Egypt.
Key points
- Pope Tawadros II inaugurates churches in Fashn, Egypt, as part of his pastoral visit.
- The Pope emphasizes the church's role in the lives of believers during his sermon.
- The visit includes the opening of a library at the Virgin Mary Church in Fashn.
