H.H. Pope Tawadros II said: “We offer our condolences to the whole world on the passing of this man who served all of humanity. Although Pope Francis sat on the Throne of Rome for only 12 years, it was a time filled with work, vitality, and service wherever he went. He left us an example of an open heart toward every human being.”
He added in aphone interview with Extra News Channel: “There is no doubt that Pope Francis was a voice for peace in all crises and conflicts around the world. He was always a voice for peace and a voice for truth—standing by the oppressed, the weary, the marginalized, and the forgotten.”
Regarding the distinguished relations between the Coptic and Catholic Churches, His Holiness said: “Our relationship was always good—full of respect and trust, framed in meekness and humility. He visited us in Egypt in 2017 and met with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. It was an extremely blessed visit. I also visited him twice, in 2013 and 2023. The most recent visit marked the 50th anniversary of the beginning of relations between the Coptic Church and the Catholic Church.”
Pope Tawadros sent a message of condolence to the Catholic Church: “The departure of a human being from this world is something known to all. The departure of this man, who served the entire world with genuine, heartfelt service to every person, is a great loss. We extend our condolences to the whole Church, his children, and his many followers. What brings comfort is that he left us a wonderful role model and example in the service of humanity everywhere.”
Pope Francis of the Vatican departed this earthly world today, at the age of 88, after spending 12 years as the head of the Catholic Church in the world.
