UK Coptic leader pays tribute to Pope Shenouda III

Bishop Angaelos has paid tribute to Pope Shenouda III who died on Saturday at the age of 88.

The patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church led Egypt’s minority Christians for the last four decades, a period when government policies often restricted the activities of Christians.

His death comes at a time when uncertainty remains over their future in the new Egypt following a series of deadly attacks on the community since the uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak.

Large crowds have lined up outside St Mark Cathedral in Cairo to view the pope’s body.

Bishop Angaelos said: “His Holiness Pope Shenouda III will be remembered by his Church as a dedicated servant of God and of the people, a man who faithfully endured through conflict, opposition, and persecution.

“His Holiness built upon the foundation laid by our Lord Jesus Christ, enhancing the Church in a variety of ways, encouraging a spirit of unity for all of humanity. May his prayers be with us all, and may he find joy and rest in the Kingdom of our gracious Lord.”

Pope Shenouda was consecrated Pope of Alexandria in 1971. Under his leadership, the Coptic Church experienced rapid growth not only in Egypt but in countries with considerable Egyptian immigrant communities, including the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia.

While there were only four Coptic churches in North America at the time of his succession, this has risen to more than 200 today.

US President Barack Obama said in a statement said: "Michelle and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Coptic Christian Pope Shenouda III, a beloved leader of Egypt's Coptic Christians and an advocate for tolerance and religious dialogue.

"We stand alongside Coptic Christians and Egyptians as they honour his contributions in support of peace and cooperation."

It was Pope Shenouda’s wish to be buried at St Bishoy Monastery of Wadi al-Natrun in the Nile Delta.

He spent four years under house arrest at the monastery in the early 1980s after criticising the treatment of Copts under the regime of then President Anwar Sadat.

According to Egypt’s state television, Bishop Pachomious of the Nile Delta province of Beheira has assumed papal duties until a new pope is elected.

A book of condolence is available at The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre for those who would like to show their respects. Please contact Admin@CopticCentre.com or phone 01438-745232.