His Holiness Pope Shenouda III’s interview with American television – Los Angeles

In this interview marking 25 years of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III’s papacy, His Holiness presents a summary of a long journey of pastoral work and ecclesiastical revival in Egypt and abroad. He explains that the number of churches in the lands of immigration increased from seven to more than 150 in America, Canada, Europe, and Australia — all with buildings, priests, and bishops serving the Coptic faithful. New theological colleges were founded in Cairo, Alexandria, and other cities, as well as abroad in Jersey, Los Angeles, and Sydney.
The Pope speaks of ordaining more than 75 bishops, promoting some to metropolitans, and ordaining hundreds of priests, while giving special attention to youth — establishing for the first time a bishopric for youth under Bishop Moussa, alongside the expanded bishopric of public and social services led by Bishop Serapion.
He highlights the organization of church service abroad through the creation of many dioceses in Europe, America, and Africa, noting also the monastic revival with the growth of monasteries and monks, and the development of guest facilities for youth and visitors.
He also discusses challenges facing the Church such as terrorism, church construction, and unemployment, explaining that problems never stop the Church’s work since God intervenes to resolve them. He mentions bureaucratic difficulties in obtaining official permits for church construction, yet notes the significant progress achieved.
Regarding the diaspora, he mentions difficulties such as language diversity and raising children amid Western notions of freedom, affirming the Church’s pastoral care for children and youth.
He firmly rejects the term “minority,” emphasizing that Copts and Christians in Egypt are an integral part of the one homeland. He also speaks about the role of women in the Church — active in education, social service, and church councils, though not ordained to the priesthood.
His Holiness concludes by addressing the issue of Jerusalem, expressing concern over its complexity and dangers, and rejecting any aggression against Islamic holy sites, praying that God grants the world true peace.

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