Dr Catherine Faragallah
Specialist in International Relations
On the occasion of the Glorious Christmas, Egypt once again presents a vivid and enduring image of national unity, embodied in President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s annual visit to the Cathedral to extend Christmas greetings to His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark. This tradition carries a profound national and political message, reaffirming the strength of Egypt’s social fabric and the unity of destiny shared by all Egyptians without discrimination.
The president’s presence among Egyptian Christians during one of their most significant religious celebrations underscores the state’s firm commitment to citizenship as a cornerstone of governance. It sends a clear message, both domestically and internationally,that all Egyptians are equal partners in the nation, and that the state maintains equal distance from all its citizens. At a time when the region continues to suffer from sectarian conflict, Egypt stands out as a unique model of religious coexistence and social cohesion.
Beyond its religious symbolism, the visit reflects important political and social dimensions.It demonstrates the state’s respect for national religious institutions and recognition of their vital role in preserving Egypt’s inclusive national identity. The continued engagement between the Presidency and the Church reassures society that harmony among state institutions prevails, and that religious differences have no place in Egypt’s public life.
Within this framework, the national role of Pope Tawadros II emerges as both historic and decisive. Chosen to lead the Church at a critical moment in Egypt’s modern history,His Holiness played a pivotal role in supporting the nation during the events of July 3,2013, and in backing the Roadmap that restored the state and its institutions. He stood firmly beside the Egyptian people, prioritising national unity over all other considerations.
During one of the most challenging periods,marked by unprecedented attacks on churches, Pope Tawadros demonstrated exceptional wisdom and patriotism. His well-known statement, “A nation without churches is better than churches without a nation,” expressed a profound understanding of citizenship and sacrifice. Through his stance, he helped extinguish sectarian tensions and reaffirmed that national belonging transcends religious affiliation.
The Pope’s concern is extended beyond safeguarding the Church to ensuring the safety and stability of all Egyptians. Guided by the principles of peace and love, he consistently placed the nation’s unity above all else.
He emphasised that freedom has a cost,and that the destruction of churches was part of a broader sacrifice made for Egypt’s stability and future. By calling for stead fast support of state institutions, he effectively closed the door to foreign intervention and reaffirmed that the Church’s foremost priority is the national interest.
Pope Tawadros has also been instrumental in conveying to the world the efforts undertaken by President Sisi to entrench citizenship and protect Christian rights, notably through the issuance of the Church Construction Law and the President’s commitment to building churches alongside mosques in new cities. The Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ side by side with the al-Fattah al-Alim Mosque in the New Administrative Capital stands as a powerful symbol of this era and of the New Republic.
Through these efforts, the Church has served as an important instrument of soft diplomacy, contributing to Egypt’s foreign relations and national security. Pope Tawadros’ unwavering support for the national state and its institutions reflects his conviction that Egypt’s stability is the true guarantee for protecting all citizens without distinction. His relationship with state institutions,particularly the Presidency, has been characterised by clarity, mutual respect, and
shared commitment to development and nation-building.
The Christmas celebrations at the Cathedral stand as clear evidence that Egypt is living the reality of the New Republic,
founded on equality, citizenship, justice, and the enduring strength of the Egyptian people.
