Archbishop Visits Pope Theodore II at the Patriarchal See in Alexandria, Discussing Strengthening Cooperation and Dialogue Among Churches
Alexandria – Wednesday, September 23, 2026
His Grace Bishop Dr. Samy Fawzy, Archbishop of the Episcopal Province of Alexandria and Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Egypt, visited His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch Theodore II, Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria, at the Patriarchal See in Alexandria. The two leaders exchanged views on the Church’s mission of serving humanity, the challenges facing communities across Africa, and the importance of continuing cooperation and dialogue among churches.
His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch Theodore II welcomed Bishop Samy Fawzy, expressing his great pleasure at receiving him at the Patriarchal See and affirming his affection for him and his appreciation for the fraternal relationship they share.
Bishop Samy Fawzy expressed his appreciation for the role played by the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa in serving society, highlighting the health, educational, and humanitarian services it provides and emphasizing how these services reflect the Church’s presence alongside people and their needs.
Pope Theodore II spoke about the humanitarian challenges facing a number of communities across the African continent, particularly poverty, hunger, and the lack of adequate healthcare for children. He stressed the importance of the Church’s continued commitment to standing alongside the poor and those in need.
His Beatitude also highlighted some of the services provided by the Patriarchate through its healthcare and educational institutions in Egypt and Africa, as well as its provision of full scholarships for seminarians from African countries, with the aim of preparing them to serve their communities.
Bishop Samy Fawzy affirmed that serving humanity lies at the heart of the Church’s mission, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts among churches in responding to humanitarian needs and alleviating human suffering, particularly in areas affected by crises and conflicts.
The meeting also addressed the situation in Sudan, where Bishop Samy Fawzy described the impact of the war on the Episcopal Church in Khartoum. He explained that the Church’s buildings had suffered extensive damage, affecting its ability to continue providing pastoral services.
The meeting coincided with the ongoing sessions of the International Commission for Anglican–Orthodox Theological Dialogue (ICAOTD) in Alexandria. Bishop Samy Fawzy praised the academic and intellectual caliber of the participants in the dialogue, stressing the importance of continuous academic preparation in serving the Church and deepening dialogue and understanding among churches.
Both sides emphasized the importance of continuing theological dialogue as a space for mutual acquaintance, understanding, cooperation, and strengthening Christian witness in the contemporary world. They also discussed the role of the Middle East Council of Churches and the Egyptian Council of Churches in supporting encounters, cooperation, and joint service among churches.
The meeting was attended by the Rev. Canon David Aziz, Dean of St. Mark’s Cathedral in Mansheya; the Rev. Yeshua Yacoub, Secretary-General of the Egyptian Council of Churches; and His Eminence Bishop Demskinos, Bishop of Mareotis and Patriarchal Vicar in Alexandria, representing the Patriarchate of Alexandria in a number of ecclesiastical institutions and bodies.
Following the meeting, Bishop Samy Fawzy visited the hall where the International Commission for Anglican–Orthodox Theological Dialogue was holding its meetings. He greeted the members of the commission, expressing his pleasure at their presence in Alexandria and wishing them success in their work and continued progress in the journey of dialogue among churches.
Issued by
The Media Office of the Episcopal Diocese of Egypt
Episcopal Church of Egypt