The Coptic Orthodox Cathedral of St. Mark in Alexandria witnessed the ordination of 12 new priests today (Saturday), by H.H. Pope Tawadros II, to serve in the churches of Alexandria.

His Holiness prayed the Divine Liturgy of Preparation Saturday for Great Lent this morning, accompanied by the General Bishops overseeing the pastoral sectors of Alexandria, Hegumen Abraam Emil (the General Deputy of the Patriarchate in Alexandria), and several priests from Alexandria.

After the Prayer of Reconciliation, Pope Tawadros prayed the ordination prayers, elevating twelve deacons to the priestly rank.

During his sermon, His Holiness reflected on the verse: “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). This verse, taken from the Gospel reading of the Third Service of the Midnight Prayers, was used by His Holiness to illustrate that the “little flock” refers to the newly ordained priest, his wife, and children. He explained that this verse carries a message of reassurance and encouragement, as it is God who has willed to bestow upon them the grace of priesthood—so they should not be afraid.

He further pointed out that contentment and thanksgiving in a priest’s life come from trusting in the divine truth: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God” (Romans 8:28).

Continuing from the same Gospel passage, His Holiness also referenced: “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season?” (Luke 12:42)

Pope Tawadros spoke about three essential qualities for a priest’s ministry:

1. Serving as a Steward – The priest is a steward of God’s mysteries, serving faithfully every day and hour. He must live a life of contentment, which can be described as the art of enjoying what is present and avoiding complaints.

2. Walking in Faithfulness – Faithfulness is the path that leads a priest toward heaven. His Holiness stressed that faithfulness must be evident in the priest’s prayers, dealings with others, doctrinal integrity, care for the souls entrusted to him, his family, and his personal life.

3. Acting with Wisdom– “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Wisdom guides a priest to walk in the fear of God. This fear requires humility, and a humble priest finds that Christ Himself carries the burdens of his ministry.

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