As tributes pour in from around the globe following the passing of Pope Francis, Egyptian Coptic Catholics gathered at the Holy Virgin Mary Coptic Catholic Cathedral in Cairo on Tuesday to hold a solemn prayer service in his memory. The late pontiff, revered for his humility, compassion, and commitment to social justice, passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
The prayer gathering was marked by solemn hymns and heartfelt reflections, as the faithful commemorated a spiritual leader whose influence transcended borders, cultures, and denominations.
A Spiritual Legacy Remembered in Cairo
At the heart of Tuesday’s memorial was a celebration of Pope Francis’ enduring values—his advocacy for the poor, efforts to foster interfaith dialogue, and passionate calls for global unity.
“Certainly, we believe that the Pope’s departure may be in body, but on the other hand, we believe that those who carry ideas—and that ideas never die,” said Anba Basilius, Metropolitan of Minya, as he addressed the congregation during the service. His words were met with murmurs of agreement and the soft weeping of those gathered to mourn a beloved religious figure.
The Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral, adorned with images of saints and illuminated by flickering candles, became a space of both mourning and gratitude, where worshippers offered prayers of thanksgiving for the late Pope’s life and ministry.
An Unforgettable Papacy
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history in 2013 when he became the first Latin American pope and the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy. Over his twelve-year tenure, he redefined the tone and global image of the Catholic Church with his emphasis on mercy, humility, and inclusion.
From washing the feet of prisoners and migrants to calling for environmental stewardship in his landmark encyclical Laudato Si’, Francis was known for breaking from tradition in both style and substance. His choice to live in the modest Vatican guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace, for instance, underscored his commitment to a simpler, more grounded papacy.
Francis’ death came just one day after his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, where he addressed thousands in St. Peter’s Square. His final blessing was met with wild applause and cheers, a poignant farewell from a public that had grown to admire his authenticity.
A Bridge Between Faiths
Beyond the Catholic world, Pope Francis earned global respect for his commitment to interfaith dialogue, particularly with Islam. His historic visit to Egypt in 2017 marked a significant moment in Christian-Muslim relations, as he spoke at Al-Azhar University and met with Grand Imam Ahmed el-Tayeb.
In a gesture reflecting those shared efforts, Egypt’s Al-Azhar issued a formal message of condolence to the Vatican, expressing “deep sorrow for the loss of a man of peace and dialogue.”
“Pope Francis worked tirelessly to promote tolerance and understanding between religions,” Al-Azhar’s statement read. “His contributions to fostering interfaith cooperation will continue to inspire generations.”
The Role of Coptic Catholics in Egypt
Tuesday’s memorial service also highlighted the important role that Coptic Catholics play within Egypt’s diverse religious landscape. While the Coptic Orthodox Church is the dominant Christian denomination in the country, the Coptic Catholic Church—part of the Eastern Catholic Churches in full communion with Rome—maintains a significant presence.
Based in Cairo, the Coptic Catholic Church includes seven dioceses and a growing number of faithful. While overall Coptic Christians number around 15 million, according to Pope Tawadros II of the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Catholic minority remains a vocal and visible part of the Christian community in Egypt.
“Today, we stand united not just as Catholics, but as Christians in Egypt, remembering a spiritual father who stood for justice, peace, and compassion,” said Father Youhanna Farid, one of the priests who led Tuesday’s service.
A Global Outpouring of Grief and Gratitude
Tributes to Pope Francis have continued to pour in from political leaders, religious institutions, and ordinary citizens around the world. From Vatican City to Buenos Aires, the sense of collective loss has been palpable, reflecting the profound impact Francis had on millions.
In a statement, the Vatican described the Pope’s final hours as “peaceful,” surrounded by close aides and in prayer. A public viewing of his body is expected to be held at St. Peter’s Basilica, where thousands are expected to pay their respects ahead of his funeral.
World leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, expressed their condolences, praising Francis as “a champion of the vulnerable and a moral compass in turbulent times.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Papacy
As the world begins to mourn and reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis, attention is slowly shifting to the process of electing his successor. A conclave of cardinals will soon convene in the Sistine Chapel to select the next pope—a process steeped in centuries-old traditions and spiritual deliberation.
Many within Egypt’s Catholic and broader Christian community are hopeful that the next pontiff will continue Francis’ legacy of reform and compassion.
“His Holiness Pope Francis showed us that the Church can be a force for change in the modern world,” said Sister Mariam Antoun, a nun who attended the Cairo memorial. “We pray that whoever comes next continues to build bridges, not walls.”
A Lasting Impact
For Egypt’s Coptic Catholics, Tuesday’s service was not just a goodbye—it was a recommitment to the values Pope Francis championed: humility, unity, justice, and faith in action.
“He may have left this world, but the seeds he planted—in our hearts, in our churches, and across humanity—will continue to bear fruit,” Anba Basilius concluded.
As candles burned late into the night at the Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral, Pope Francis’ enduring message was clear: even in death, his call for love, justice, and peace lives on.
