Egypt Daily News – Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, led the Divine Liturgy today, Thursday, at the St. Mark’s Cathedral in Abbassiya.
During the liturgy, Pope Tawadros ordained 19 new priests to serve in various regions of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt and abroad, with the participation of several bishops and the General Vicar of the Patriarchate in Cairo.
Fifteen priests were ordained for churches in Cairo, three for service in Africa, and one for California, USA.
The sermon delivered by His Holiness during the liturgy carried encouraging messages based on the Gospel reading from the Gospel of Saint Luke (Luke 12:4-12). His Holiness pointed out that this passage includes two promises and an important warning:
Promise: “Do not be afraid” – This is a message of reassurance for everyone, especially directed today to the newly ordained priests and their families. They are encouraged not to fear the responsibilities of ministry or the uncertainties of the future.
Warning against blasphemy against the Holy Spirit – Blasphemy here refers to persistent sin. In the life of a priest, this can manifest in various ways, particularly through laziness, carelessness, and lack of faithfulness.
Promise: “You are not forgotten before God” – God never forgets the work done for His sake. He remembers:
- Your repentance and the purity of your heart and mind.
- Your reading and study of the Holy Scriptures.
- Your personal prayers and intercessions for your people.
- Your pastoral visits and continuous care for your congregation.
- Your kindness and warmth in interactions with the people.
