Archbishop of the English Episcopal Church Calls for June 1 to Be National Holiday Commemorating Holy Family’s Entry into Egypt

Archbishop Dr. Sami Fawzi, Archbishop of Alexandria Province of the English Episcopal Church, has called for June 1 to be recognized as a national holiday in Egypt to commemorate the Holy Family’s entry into the country. The Archbishop emphasized the spiritual and national significance of this event, highlighting its role as a symbol of joy and blessing for all Egyptians. He noted that Egypt holds a unique place in history as the land where the Holy Family found refuge during their flight, a choice that bestowed special blessings upon the nation.

The Archbishop described the memory of the Holy Family’s journey into Egypt as embodying the values of love, peace, coexistence, and acceptance of others. These principles, he stated, have been deeply embedded in Egyptian identity throughout the country’s long history and continue to shape its cultural and social fabric.

Archbishop Fawzi underscored the importance of preserving and promoting the legacy of the Holy Family’s journey as a vital heritage, religious, and tourism asset. He highlighted its potential to positively impact the national economy by stimulating religious tourism and attracting visitors from around the world to explore the sites associated with the family’s historic path through Egypt.

The Archbishop proposed that June 1 be designated a national holiday to honor this event, advocating for its inclusion in school curricula. This, he argued, would help educate new generations about the historical and spiritual significance of the Holy Family’s entry into Egypt, while also fostering awareness of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Archbishop Fawzi praised the Egyptian government’s efforts to develop and prepare the sites along the Holy Family’s route for visitors. He viewed these initiatives as a reflection of a broader vision to preserve and utilize religious and humanitarian heritage for the benefit of all.

The Archbishop also acknowledged the positive role of the Egyptian state in promoting citizenship values, equality, and coexistence. He credited these efforts, under the leadership of President Abdelfattah Sisi and with the support of state institutions, for strengthening national unity and reinforcing Egypt’s position as a stable and tolerant nation.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)