Pope Tawadrus II opens fourth Scientific Conference of the Institute of Coptic Studies

Pope Tawadrus II opened the fourth Scientific Conference of the Institute of Coptic Studies on Thursday. The event, held at the Abba Royce Cathedral in Alexandria, is titled “Coptic Studies and Awareness-raising of Coptic Identity – a contemporary reality and a vision for the future.” The conference spans two days, with the opening ceremony featuring an exhibition of art and archaeology related to Coptic heritage. The display included icons, Christian Indian art, and models of Coptic architecture, highlighting environmental design in churches, healing centers, and residential structures.

The opening ceremony attracted a range of attendees, including former ministers, university professors, public figures, researchers, and scholars. Dr. Maged Mémie Abdulmalik, Dean of the Institute of Coptic Studies, welcomed Pope Tawadrus II and participants. The event also coincided with news of a Malawian rain that honored the Shimmy of the Porter of Pope Tawadis within the Church following a Wednesday meeting.

The conference’s rapporteur, Ihab Aatat, outlined the program, while former Minister of Culture, Hlami Al-Nanam, highlighted the significance of the event. He noted that the conference took place during Egypt’s 6 October 1973 victory, a moment he described as a manifestation of Egyptian national identity. Al-Nanam also mentioned that the conference occurred two weeks after another event at the Alexandria Library, organized under the President of the Republic’s auspices, focusing on Egyptian national identity. He emphasized the importance of Coptic identity as a fundamental aspect of Egyptian citizenship and called for its integration into national and cultural frameworks.

Al-Nanam reflected on past challenges, noting that the 1960s through the mid-1980s faced significant attempts at displacement and marginalization. He recalled requesting the establishment of a Coptic Studies Center at an Egyptian university two decades ago, arguing that Coptic identity was essential to Egyptian national identity and should be taught beyond the church’s walls. His remarks underscored the need for broader recognition of Coptic heritage within academic and public spheres.

The conference aims to foster dialogue on Coptic identity and its role in contemporary society. By bringing together scholars, leaders, and community members, the event reflects a commitment to preserving and promoting Coptic heritage. Such gatherings align with efforts to ensure that Coptic identity remains a vital part of Egypt’s cultural and national narrative. As the conference unfolds, it offers an opportunity to explore the intersection of faith, history, and national identity, echoing the call to seek justice and care for one’s neighbor, as seen in Micah 6:8.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)