- MB News
- March 20, 2012
- 3 minutes read
Brotherhood Leader Tells Egyptians Pope Shenouda Farewell Unforgettable
Dr. Mohamed Badie, Chairman of the Muslim Brotherhood (MB), said: “I will never forget my last ‘farewell’ meeting with Pope Shenouda, the moment he came out exhausted after a sermon in which he spoke of the teachings of all divine faiths. His severe illness did not stop him from continuing to give all he could”.
The MB Chairman said: "Another moment that I cannot forget is when Pope Shenouda prayed for me, just as I was praying for him. I believe that this moment will remain in the memory of the Egyptian people and future generations”.
Dr. Badie offered his condolences on Egyptian television’s "Good Morning Egypt" program, on Monday: “Pope Shenouda’s true patriotism was evident in many situations over his long life. He had many honorable and decisive stances as witnessed by all”.
The Brotherhood chief called on Egyptian to pray for their Christian brothers that God compensate them with good blessings, and help them unite behind a worthy successor who can complete the journey of love for Egypt, and seek unity between Muslims and Christians in this one homeland.
Moreover, the MB leader explained that Pope Shenouda’s attitude towards Palestine, especially Jerusalem and the Aqsa Mosque as well as the Church of the Resurrection (the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem) is recorded in history, written in the hearts of men and women of all Egypt, as a 100% patriotic stance. I remember him saying: ‘We will not visit the Church of the Resurrection except with our Muslim brothers when they visit Al-Aqsa Mosque".
Further, Dr. Badie mentioned the words of Pope Shenouda regarding Jerusalem, when he stressed that it is not an issue for Muslims alone, but for all Egyptians – Muslims and Christians.
The Brotherhood leader reiterated that Egypt must be all united, against sectarianism and discrimination, and must not allow anyone to break this relationship, quoting from the Holy Quran (5:82), "You will find the closest in affection and friendship to Muslims are those who said, ‘We are Christians’. That is because scholars and monks are among them, and they are not arrogant". Then, Badie prayed to God to help Christian brothers and sisters to choose the right successor who would undertake the mission of maintaining the strong relationship between Muslims and Christians.