H.H. Pope Tawadros II prays the liturgy commemorating the 12th anniversary of his enthronement on the See of St. Mark the Apostle, in the presence of 100 Metropolitan and Bishop members of the Holy Synod.
In his sermon during the liturgy marking the 12th anniversary of his enthronement, His Holiness said: “Our gathering together today is rich and is more powerful than one hundred sermons,” with the attendance of 100 members of the Holy Synod.
Today; Monday, November 18, 2024, corresponding to 9 Hatour 1741 A.M, the Coptic Orthodox Church celebrated the 12th anniversary of the enthronement of H.H. Pope Tawadros II as Pope and Patriarch on the Throne of St. Mark the Apostle.
On this occasion, a celebratory liturgy was held at the Church of the Transfiguration in the Logos Center at St Bishoy’s Monastery; Wadi El-Natroun. His Holiness led the service, joined by around 100 metropolitans and bishops, the General Deputies of the Patriarchate in Cairo and Alexandria, the Director of His Holiness’ Office, his secretaries and assistants from among the priests and monks.
In his sermon during the liturgy, Pope Tawadros highlighted the historical commemorations the Coptic Church is celebrating today. These include the commemoration of the Council of Nicaea, attended by 318 bishops, which condemned the heresy of Arius, as well as the anniversary of the consecration of St. Mark’s Cathedral in Anba Reweis in 2018.
Regarding the anniversary of his enthronement, His Holiness said: “Today also marks 12 years since our weakness was entrusted with the service of His holy Church.” He added: “There is no doubt that over the years, one gains experience, grows in understanding and learns more.” Pope Tawadros continued: “On such occasions, it is fitting for us to say: ‘We thank You, Lord, for You have covered us, helped us, guarded us, accepted us unto Yourself, spared us, supported us, and brought us to this hour.'”
His Holiness then shared five reflections that serve as guiding principles for pastoral service:
- Biblical literacy is important, but living by the Bible is even more important:
He emphasized the significance of Biblical activities in service, such as interpretations and competitions, which can eliminate Biblical illiteracy. However, he stressed that what matters most is how we instill a life guided by the Bible in the hearts of our congregation in all their lives’ circumstances. Pope Tawadros referenced the saying of Saint Fr. Bishoy Kamel: “The living Gospel,” meaning living according to the Gospel. He urged the fathers to prioritize embedding a Bible-centered life within families, services, and among priests, emphasizing that this is their foremost responsibility. - The service of teaching is important, but the ministry of peace is a necessity:
His Holiness noted that in the Bible, and in our tradition, the Lord Christ is called “The Good Teacher,” but we also call Him “The Maker of Peace.” He highlighted that while we need to teach and educate our children in service, it is even more vital to teach them how to maintain peace. The greatest service we can offer is to plant peace in the hearts of our congregation—in their homes, services, and within the Church. - Preserving faith and doctrine is essential, but so is instilling a life of piety in the soul:
Piety is the fear of God and faithfulness in word and deed. An esteemed doctrine should bear the fruit of piety, as it is piety that we will stand with before God on the Last Day. Pope Tawadros warned against those who turn the defense of doctrine into battles and call for hatred or conflict.
His Holiness added: “We must recognize that our Church is steadfast, with sound faith that has nurtured generations in this belief. We must teach our children faith, but alongside piety.”
- The use of technology is important, but personal example and role models must be the impactful elements in our online presence:
We must carefully choose our words and expressions when teaching, serving, or visiting others—especially in the age of technology, which provides greater opportunities for education and ministry. However, we should remember that Christ did not write books; instead, He presented Himself as a model and example, thereby transforming the lives of millions. - The service of each one of us in our respective places (dioceses or monasteries) is important, but our unity and presence together have special significance:
Our gathering together today is rich and more powerful than one hundred sermons. When people see us together as fathers, they rejoice and feel reassured. Through meeting, dialoguing, drawing closer, consulting, and exchanging experiences, we grow, and the Church grows as well.
His Holiness emphasized that the primary goal of establishing the Logos Center was to provide members of the Holy Synod with a space for accomodation, retreat, and hosting study and discussion sessions—something each of us deeply needs.
H.H. Pope Tawadros II was enthroned on the See of St. Mark on Sunday, November 18, 2012, becoming the 118th Pope in the lineage of the Coptic Orthodox Church.
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