Today, the Episcopal Diocese organized a Ramadan Iftar (breaking of fast) in cooperation with the Christian-Muslim Center for Understanding and Partnership, under the patronage of Archbishop Dr. Sami Fawzy, Archbishop of the Province of Alexandria of the Episcopal Anglican Church, and the Christian-Muslim Center for Understanding and Partnership. The event was held at All Saints’ Episcopal Cathedral Hall in Zamalek.
In his remarks, Archbishop Dr. Sami Fawzy said:
“I warmly welcome you to this fraternal iftar organized by the Episcopal Church in cooperation with the Christian-Muslim Center. We are delighted by your presence among us today, as we are true partners in serving our nation and humanity. In such times, our moral responsibility grows to be a voice of love and peace. God calls us to love, not hatred, and to be united in purpose and heart—loving our country sincerely and serving humanity with integrity. I pray that God protects us all, protects Egypt, and fills our hearts and our nation with His peace.”
Bishop Dr. Mouneer Hanna also addressed the gathering, saying:
“I welcome you to this blessed occasion where we gather around one table—Christians and Muslims—reflecting a beautiful image of love and partnership that characterizes our society. I am pleased to share with you the work of the Christian-Muslim Center, which includes three main departments: first, the Department of Christian and Islamic Studies, where Al-Azhar University students and theology students engage in constructive academic dialogue; second, the Community Initiatives Department, which promotes joint service and cooperation; and third, the Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding Department, which seeks to foster a culture of dialogue and bridge-building. The Center is supported by its Board of Trustees, which strengthens its mission.”
He added that the center is a rare model that brings together the Episcopal Church and Al-Azhar, noting that over the past year it has organized study tours and specialized training programs in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, and he thanked all those who support and sustain this work that promotes national unity.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, representing Grand Mufti Dr. Nazir Ayyad, said:
“God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: ‘Cooperate in righteousness and piety.’ This is a clear call to live in a spirit of cooperation and shared work for the good. In Egypt, occasions and celebrations bring us together in sincere love, where no division is felt between us. We love all people and honor our national and religious symbols, and mutual respect prevails among us. This is how God intends us to live, and the teachings of Christ also emphasize love and peace as a way of life. We pray that Egypt remains filled with goodness and peace, and that God always gathers us in sincere brotherhood and lasting harmony.”
Dr. Yasser Al-Ghayati, representing Minister of Endowments Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, added:
“As Egyptians, we transform every occasion into an opportunity that brings everyone together. This is a deeply rooted tradition passed down through generations, built on values of love, respect, and brotherhood. Egyptians naturally lean toward dignity in relationships and closeness in all times, believing that God created us different so we may complement one another. As Christ said, ‘Love one another with brotherly affection, outdo one another in showing honor.’ We pray that our relationships remain founded on mutual respect and affection. Thank you for this gracious invitation and for the spirit of love that unites us today.”
The iftar was attended by a wide range of religious, diplomatic, academic, and public figures, including representatives from the Coptic Orthodox Church, international bishops and archbishops, ambassadors from multiple countries, and senior officials and scholars from Egypt and abroad.
The gathering reflected a strong message of unity, dialogue, and shared commitment to peace, coexistence, and service to society.