VATICAN CITY, Nov 18, 2012 (AFP)
VATICAN CITY, Nov 18, 2012 (AFP)
Pope Benedict XVI urged the new pope of Egypt’s Coptic Christians on Sunday to strengthen relations between the Catholic and Coptic Church in a challenging climate under an Islamist-led government.
“It is with fraternal joy that I send greetings to your Holiness on the happy occasion of your enthronement,” Benedict said in a message sent to Pope Tawadros II as he was enthroned in a ceremony at Cairo’s St Mark’s Cathedral.
“I pray too that relations between the Catholic Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church will continue to grow closer, not only in a fraternal spirit of collaboration, but also through a deepening of the theological dialogue.”
Benedict said he hoped Tawadros would draw on the example of his predecessor, Pope Shenuda III, whose “concern for improving relations with other Christian Churches reinforces our hope that one day all the followers of Christ will find themselves united.”
“Conscious of the great challenges which accompany the spiritual and pastoral ministry that your Holiness is about to undertake, I assure you of my prayers and personal good wishes,” he said.
Tawadros was chosen on November 4 to succeed Pope Shenuda III — who died in March after four decades on the patriarchal throne — after a blindfolded altar boy picked his name from a chalice, according to church custom.
He becomes spiritual head of the largest Christian minority in the Middle East. Egypt’s Coptic Christians have faced a surge in sectarian attacks after a popular uprising overthrew president Hosni Mubarak in February 2011.
“May the Almighty grant your Holiness abundant spiritual gifts to strengthen you in your new ministry, as you guide the clergy and laity along the paths of holiness… for the peace and harmony of the whole of society,” Benedict said.
