This evening, H.H. Pope Tawadros II visited the Convent of Virgin Mary and Archangel Michael in Sanbo, which belongs to the Diocese of Dayrut and Sanbo, as part of his current pastoral visit to Asyut Governorate that commenced today.

The community of nuns received His Holiness with hymns, while carrying candles and flowers. After praying the Prayer of Thanksgiving, His Holiness addressed them with a meditation taken from the Absolution of the Sixth Hour Prayer:

“Grant us, O God, a glorious time, a spotless conduct, and a peaceful life, so that we may please Your holy and worshipped name;.”

He reflected on the four phrases of this prayer:

“Grant us a glorious time”
The word “glorious” here signifies both inward and outward radiance, which comes from inner purity flowing into outward purity. Time becomes glorious and radiant when it is sanctified with prayer, daily praises, and the reading of the Holy Bible, which is the very breath of God. By reading the Bible, it is as if we breathe in the breath of God. Conversely, when we allow a spirit of criticism, complaint, or stubbornness to enter us, such things rob us of this glorious time.

“A spotless conduct”
St. John Chrysostom teaches: “A pure conduct silences and shuts the mouth of Satan.” A person’s conduct is like a fragrance; if the conduct is holy, it spreads like a sweet aroma. The pure prayers lifted up from our monasteries are what preserve the Church and safeguard our country.

“A peaceful life”
Peacefulness is the original condition of life. This is why many are drawn to rural life, for it is tranquil. Blessed indeed are those who live a calm life filled with peace. As the Lord Christ said: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).

“That we may please Your holy name”
This is the ultimate goal, which is attained through the harmonious trio of a glorious time, a spotless conduct, and a peaceful life.

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