Journalist Marta Zablouka conducted an interview with His Holiness Pope Tawadros II on behalf of the Polish News Agency (P.A.P), with Dr. Adam Hussein translating from Arabic into Polish.

During the interview, His Holiness emphasized that the purpose of his visit was to attend to the Coptic Church members living in Poland, noting that there is a church serving about 400 people — students and working families — with a priest serving under the Diocese of Central Europe, overseen by His Grace Bishop Giovanni. His Holiness also mentioned meetings with Egyptian and Polish officials during the visit.

His Holiness expressed his profound love for the late Pope Francis of the Vatican, noting that they had met many times. With his passing, humanity lost a true servant, but gained a friend in heaven who prays for humanity and Christianity. His Holiness elaborated on the dimensions of his close relationship with Pope Francis, describing him as a historic milestone in the life of the Church and of peoples.

Reflecting on a particularly meaningful meeting, His Holiness recalled:
“Our last meeting was in May 2023 during my visit to the Vatican. The deep love between us was evident. We met in St. Peter’s Square, exchanged speeches, and shared a meal in a remarkable gathering where we discussed news of both churches. During the official meeting, we presented part of the belongings of the Coptic Martyrs of Libya, who were martyred in 2015. Pope Francis was deeply moved, showed great affection, and decided to dedicate an altar in the Vatican in their name.”

On the topic of achieving Christian unity, His Holiness explained that the path requires several steps:
First: Building relationships of love with all churches.
Second: Conducting specialized studies to understand the history and doctrines of each church.
Third: Engaging in deep theological dialogues.
Lastly: Praying earnestly for this desire to be fulfilled, since it is Christ’s wish that all may be one.

Regarding practical steps towards unity, His Holiness noted that real progress is already underway, with mutual love and serious theological dialogues, such as those between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches, which have helped deepen mutual understanding. He reminded that the schism occurred in 451 AD — fifteen centuries ago — and thus, healing it will require significant time and effort.

On how to deepen understanding between the churches, he said:
“It is essential for the Catholic Church to better understand our doctrines and traditions. We have a rich heritage and spiritual treasures from the explanations of the early Church Fathers. The Coptic Church has followed a straight path from the days of Christ until today.”
He added:
“We observe more than 200 days of fasting each year, have a magnificent body of church hymns in the Coptic language, and sacred iconographic arts. Visiting our monasteries and learning about our monastic life is a key step toward closer ties.”

Speaking about his visit to Poland, His Holiness noted that this was his first visit there:
“I have long read about Poland since the time of Pope John Paul II, who was Polish. I learned about Krakow and the famous Polish leader Lech Wałęsa. My desire to visit increased after the current Polish president and his wife visited Egypt, where we welcomed them at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Abbassia and they met with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.”

Regarding the number of Copts in Europe and outside Egypt, His Holiness said:
“There are about three million Copts outside Egypt, out of nine million Egyptians living abroad. The largest Coptic communities are in the United States, France, and Australia, where we have churches and monasteries serving them.”
He emphasized the Church’s responsibility to care for every individual, even if there are only three or four Copts in a particular country, with a priest visiting them every six months.

Discussing major challenges facing Christian families today, His Holiness highlighted three main issues:
First, economic difficulties, especially among needy families.
Second, the high cost of good education.
Third, the influence of digital media, which has affected the thinking and morals of youth, often in ways contrary to Eastern values.
He noted that the Church has a key role in preserving purity of thought and safeguarding its children from such influences.

He further stressed that, despite the challenges, Egypt does not suffer from religious persecution between Muslims and Christians:
“We have lived together in love and harmony for centuries, learning, working, and healing side by side. Reports issued by some human rights organizations are often politically motivated. I invite you to visit Egypt and see the reality for yourselves.”

On sources of spiritual support, His Holiness said:
“True support comes from God alone and from the churches and monasteries. God loves all people, He is the maker of good and the sustainer of all. Therefore, we live in reassurance and peace, and we repeat daily: O King of Peace, grant us Your peace.”

Regarding those experiencing crises of faith or doubt, His Holiness added:
“Distance from God leads a person into a circle of doubt and despair, which can cause serious issues like atheism and suicide. Today’s world needs more love — the real hunger in the world is not for material things, but for love.”

In conclusion, His Holiness emphasized the importance of love and service as the Church’s role in helping every human being.

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