Egyptian Church Leaders Mourn Death of Qatar’s Former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the former Emir of Qatar and father of the current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, has died at the age of 73 following a battle with disease. The passing of the late Prince, who served as the leader of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, has prompted formal expressions of mourning from major religious institutions in Egypt. These leaders acknowledged his role in the modern development of the state and extended their condolences to the Qatari ruling family, government, and people.

During his tenure, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani is described as the first founder of the modern renaissance of Qatar. His leadership oversaw significant political, economic, and educational transformations that positioned the country among developed nations. Doha, the capital, underwent major changes during this period, establishing itself as an influential regional and international center. The late Prince is credited with contributing to values of tolerance and coexistence in the region, a legacy recognized by the Egyptian church leaders who issued statements of grief.

Dr. Pastor André Zaki, President of the Evangelical Community of Egypt and Chairman of the Evangelical Coptic Commission for Social Services, issued an official statement on behalf of the General Council of the Evangelical People. Speaking for the heads of the evangelical doctrines of Egypt and the members of the Evangelical Waqf Commission, Zaki extended sincere condolences to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and the State of Qatar. He expressed a prayer that God would grant comfort, patience, and peace to the grieving family and the nation, reflecting a spirit of interfaith respect and communal sorrow.

The Orthodox Coptic Church, led by His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church, also issued a tribute to the late Prince. The statement honored the Emir, the government, and the people of Qatar, as well as the members of the royal family. The Church asked for condolences and patience in the death of a figure described as a kind father who contributed to the rise and progress of his country at all levels, highlighting the personal and national impact of his leadership.

The Catholic Church of Egypt, represented by the Greek Patriarch of the Coptic Catholics and Chairman of the Council of Catholic Patriarchs and Bishops of Egypt, similarly expressed its condolences. The statement addressed the Emir, the government, and the people of Qatar, as well as the royal family, offering prayers for their patience and comfort in the face of this loss. This collective response from the three Egyptian Christian communities underscores the depth of human ties and appreciation for the role of sister countries in fostering regional stability and development.

The mourning observed by these institutions serves as a reminder of the moral weight carried by those in positions of authority. As stated in Micah 6:8, the requirement to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God is a standard that resonates in the public remembrance of leaders who have shaped the well-being of their nations. The expressions of grief and prayer from the Egyptian churches reflect a commitment to public truth and neighbor-love, honoring the deceased while seeking peace for those left behind.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)