Easter in Cairo: Pope Tawadros calls for hope and national unity

In a moving display of faith and unity, Pope Tawadros II, head of Egypt’s Coptic Orthodox Church, presided over the Easter Mass on Saturday evening at the historic St. Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Cairo’s Abbasiya district.

Thousands of worshippers gathered in and around the cathedral, joining in the annual celebration of the resurrection of Christ, a central event in the Christian faith.

The ceremony, held amid tight security, was attended by high-ranking government officials, including ministers, members of parliament, and public figures. Their presence reflected the state’s acknowledgment of Egypt’s Christian community and the importance of peaceful religious coexistence.

Pope Tawadros II delivered a sermon focusing on the message of hope, love, and resurrection. He called on all Egyptians to uphold values of compassion and solidarity, especially in times of hardship. “The resurrection is a message to rise above despair and fear,” he said, emphasizing the spiritual power of Easter for individuals and communities alike.

Religious Coexistence in Egypt

Despite occasional tensions, Egypt continues to promote religious tolerance and interfaith understanding. The government has increased efforts to protect places of worship and combat sectarianism.

President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has repeatedly expressed support for the Coptic community, attending Christmas Mass in past years and urging unity among Egyptians of all faiths.

Copts, who represent around 10% of Egypt’s population, are the largest Christian community in the Middle East.

For centuries, they have played a vital role in Egypt’s cultural and social fabric. Events like Easter provide moments not only of religious devotion but also of national reflection on coexistence and shared identity.

As bells rang and candles lit the night inside the grand cathedral, the celebration of Easter this year once again reaffirmed the resilience of the Coptic community and its commitment to peace and faith in the heart of the Arab world’s most populous country.