Today, Archbishop Dr. Samy Fawzy, Archbishop of the Province of Alexandria of the Episcopal/Anglican Church, paid a cordial visit to His Grace Bishop Makarios, Coptic Orthodox Bishop of Minya. The visit reflected a spirit of love and cooperation between the two churches. Archbishop Fawzy was accompanied by Bishop Emeritus Dr. Mouneer Hanna, Director of the Christian-Islamic Center for Understanding and Partnership; Dr. Mohamed Abou Zeid, Coordinator of the Egyptian Family House; and Mr. Selim Wasif, a lay servant from the Episcopal Church.
During the visit, Archbishop Fawzy presented to Bishop Makarios the details of the ongoing training in Minya, which focuses on peacebuilding and conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of inter-church collaboration in promoting social peace.
The Archbishop and his accompanying delegation also highlighted the activities of the Christian-Islamic Center for Understanding and Partnership, particularly its efforts in peacebuilding and its current training programs aimed at supporting a just state and instilling values of peace and acceptance of others.
Bishop Mouneer expressed his joy at the visit and recalled his personal friendship with the late Pope Shenouda III, describing it as a relationship filled with mutual respect and appreciation.
For his part, Bishop Makarios expressed his appreciation for the strong and positive relationship between the Orthodox and Episcopal Churches, stressing the importance of continuing the spirit of brotherhood and love that binds the Egyptian churches.
Bishop Makarios also introduced the visiting delegation to key historical landmarks in Minya and discussed the challenges facing the governorate—particularly in its most underprivileged areas.
The meeting concluded with a joint affirmation:
“The most beautiful thing happening today is that we are united behind our political leadership, and united at heart in building a better nation for all.”