LWF Congratulates New Leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church

Bishop Tawadros II Elected Pope in Egypt

The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) congratulates Bishop Tawadros II on his election, 4 November, as the new leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

In a letter to the newly elected Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria and Patriarch of All Africa, LWF General Secretary Rev. Martin Junge expressed “the joy and gratitude” with which the LWF had received the news about Tawadros’ election.

Junge noted the choice of the new head the Coptic Church comes in the midst of complex and profound changes in society. He prayed for guidance and inspiration, perseverance and strength upon the new leader, and assured the church of LWF’s prayers as it carries out its faithful witness.

Junge recalled that Tawadros’ predecessor Pope Shenouda III was a committed leader of the Coptic Church and of the ecumenical movement, who “understood the importance of interfaith encounter” and the critical role of faith in building a just and peaceful society. He said the LWF “joins all those who are praying fervently that the people of Egypt may be strengthened as they seek to build a nation where everybody enjoys justice and peace.”

Prior to his election, Tawadros, 60, served as bishop of the Nile Delta province of Beheira. He will be inaugurated into office on 18 November, succeeding Pope Shenouda III who led the church from 1971 until his death last March.

The Coptic Orthodox Church has an estimated 12 million followers worldwide, most of them in Egypt.