June 30 Revolution corrected Egypt’s path: Pope Tawadros II

CAIRO - 2 September 2017: Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Patriarch of Saint Mark’s Diocese stated in an interview with the Australian channel SBS that the June 30 Revolution came to correct Egypt’s path following the presidency of former Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated President Mohamed Morsi.

He stated that the Egyptian revolution of 2011 was stolen by some organizations who wanted to change Egypt’s path, but then the June 30 Revolution came to correct this with a new constitution and new presidential election system, aiming to also improve the country’s economic and educational systems.

He called on terrorist groups to begin anew, start interacting with the society and stop their shameful behavior.

He added that Egyptian Muslims and Christians love religion, but do not accept being ruled by a religious regime.

On the Coptic Orthodox Church, the pope said that its role is spiritual and that it is a national church that is completely separated from the government.

He said that there are weekly meetings in churches for young people, both inside and outside Egypt. These meetings help them learn about their lives and adapt them to the church and their future.

Pope Tawadros II arrived on Wednesday in Australia and will continue his visit until September 13.

This was the second stop of his papal tour, which already took him to Japan. Upon the pope’s arrival, Egyptian Ambassador to Australia Mohamed Khairat and members of the Egyptian embassy welcomed him and his delegation. During the visit, the pope will carry out several pastoral activities and inaugurate a number of service projects.