Today, Archbishop Dr. Samy Fawzy, Archbishop of the Alexandria Diocese of the Anglican Church, participated in the Dr. Ali Al-Samman Dialogue and Peace Award ceremony and the celebration of the 24th anniversary of the dialogue agreement between the Anglican Church and Al-Azhar Al-Sharif. The event was attended by Bishop Dr. Monir Hanna, Director of the Center, Dr. Ali Gomaa, member of the Senior Scholars of Al-Azhar, and Mrs. Brigitte Al-Samman, wife of the late Dr. Ali Al-Samman, at All Saints’ Cathedral.
In his speech, the Archbishop said: “We meet today at All Saints’ Cathedral not merely to recall a figure from the past, but to renew our commitment to a living message inspired by the thought of Dr. Ali Al-Samman, who was not just a page in history but a model of inspiration and the bridges that connect people. He believed that nation-building depends on trust and understanding, that differences among people are not threats but enrichments, and that dialogue is not a slogan but a way of life that opens doors, strengthens relationships, and promotes peace.”
He continued: “His legacy is reflected in practical and cultural initiatives, most notably the ‘House of the Egyptian Family,’ which embodies national unity and coexistence. The Dr. Ali Al-Samman Award is not merely a competition for artistic or community work, but a cultural and spiritual message that instills the values of tolerance and peace. In continuing his journey, we commemorate 24 years since the signing of the dialogue agreement between Al-Azhar and the Anglican Church, which he helped formulate and realize, affirming that the best way to honor him is to continue building bridges, promoting peace, and serving the community with love and compassion.”
Bishop Monir Hanna said: “Today we celebrate the 24th anniversary of the signing of the dialogue agreement between the Anglican Church and Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, which led to the establishment of the Christian-Islamic Center for Understanding and Partnership to enhance dialogue and serve the community. The project began with Archbishop Samy’s initiative and a meeting with Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, who welcomed the idea and was represented by Dr. Nazeer Mohamed Ayad on the Center’s Board of Trustees. The Center is unique in the Middle East for its genuine partnership between Al-Azhar and the Anglican Church. During the past period, the Center organized five educational trips and twelve training courses in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, in cooperation with the House of the Egyptian Family, Misr El-Kheir Foundation, and the ‘It’s Our Planet’ initiative, involving students from Al-Azhar schools and institutes.”
Dr. Ali Gomaa said: “It was a joyful evening and a pleasant gathering in which we remembered the late Dr. Ali Al-Samman, a man renowned for his service to the nation, humanity, and media, whose impact touched all of us, Egyptians and non-Egyptians alike. His actions honored him and made his name a symbol of service at the global level, utilizing his extensive knowledge to promote Islamic dialogue, development, and peacebuilding values. He lived a life of sincere worship, never neglecting any duty or prayer, and collaborated with Al-Azhar scholars in efforts toward dialogue for peace. His presence and guidance were a source of inspiration for all, and we also value Mrs. Brigitte’s efforts and all her support and contributions.”
Mrs. Brigitte Al-Samman stressed: “We cannot stand idly by and remain passive. That is why I urge all attendees today to raise their voices and become committed ambassadors supporting the Christian-Islamic Center’s initiative in launching the Dr. Ali Al-Samman Peace and Dialogue Award. You must play a key role in engaging young people around you, encouraging their interest in the works of the award recipients honored today, and helping them realize the importance of participating in practical ways to promote dialogue and coexistence in love and peace.”
The event was also attended by Dr. Al-Sayed Abdel-Bari, representing the Minister of Awqaf, Dr. Osama Al-Azhari; Dr. Mostafa Abdel-Karim, Fatwa Secretary at the Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta, representing Grand Mufti Dr. Nazeer Ayad; Fr. Dr. Emmanuel Pisani, Director of the Institute of Oriental Studies; Fr. Rafiq Gareesh, pastor of St. Cyril’s Church and Media Committee Secretary at the House of the Egyptian Family; Dr. Ahmed Zaki Badr, former Minister of Education; Dr. Ziad Bahaa-Eldin, former Deputy Prime Minister; Dr. Ahmed Darwish, former Minister of Administrative Development and Planning; Dr. Ibrahim Fawzy, former Minister of Industry; Ambassador Raouf Saad, former Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs; businessman Eng. Magdy Al-Taher; Mr. Mohamed Al-Garhy, Secretary-General of the Journalists’ Syndicate; and Fr. Dr. Jean Bernis and Fr. Dr. Jean Drouil, Deputy Director and Faculty of the Institute of Oriental Studies.