Pope: Both Muslims, Christians constitute Egypt’s united fabric

Cairo - Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, said on Wednesday the fabric of Egyptian society is constituted by both Muslims and Christians. The Egyptian army has taken revenge for Christian martyrs through the recent airstrikes carried out targeting strategical terrorist bases in Libya. 

A total of 29 Egyptian Christians were killed last Friday in an attack claimed by the Islamic State ISIS in the Egyptian southern governorate of Minya, where the perpetrators opened fire on a bus carrying the victims.

“We remember our fellow Christians killed in Minya. The repercussion of this violent attack was very severe," the pope said during his weekly sermon.

“Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we feel their suffering and the severe pain of the church, Copts and Muslims. This attack tarnishes the image of Egypt, which is an important country and its incidents are closely monitored. 

“We received condolence from Egyptian President, international leaders, patriarchs and bishops from Egypt and abroad. The airstrikes launched by the Egyptian army were part of Egypt’s retaliation for the victims.

“I appreciate the condolences received for the victims. The papal office is in continuous contact with security and health departments on this issue. The existence of both Muslims and Christians constitute the fabric of the Egyptian society,” the pope reiterated.

Pope Tawadros II called on people to be rational so that they can deal with this new war, noting that “I expect the bodies in charge, without naming any institution, will take full responsibility to accomplish their duties completely. We need to be patient, calm and think twice about each word [uttered].”

“I had a long conversation with Ali Abdel Aal, Speaker of the Egyptian parliament, and we have agreed that many entities must take action to ensure the security of Egypt.

“No tolerance should be shown when dealing with extremism in order to avoid serious consequences, and we all should assume social responsibility,” the pope added.