His Holiness Pope Shenouda began by honoring Archdeacon Habib Girgis, expressing deep gratitude for his pioneering role in founding religious education and Sunday Schools in the Coptic Orthodox Church. He noted that many in the current generation never met him, yet their service exists because of his labor.

Leadership and Creativity in Weak Times

Pope Shenouda described how Habib Girgis faced an era with no teachers or theological schools, yet never used that as an excuse. Instead, he founded the Clerical College, established Sunday Schools, authored educational books, and became a model of positive, constructive work. When there were no resources, he created them by faith and perseverance.

Spirit of Service and Dedication

He explained that Habib Girgis lived as a consecrated deacon, seeking no earthly glory but dedicating his whole life to education and the service of the Church. He lived in purity and celibacy, fully devoted to teaching and preaching.

Creative Mind and Organized Thought

Habib Girgis was the first to publish the sayings of the Fathers in Al-Karma Magazine, founded the seminary library, and wrote on theology, doctrine, history, and spirituality. Pope Shenouda described him as “a maker of history,” not merely a recorder of it.

The Positive Example

Pope Shenouda noted that Habib Girgis never criticized others despite facing attacks. He kept working calmly and humbly, following Christ’s teaching: “Let both grow together.” He believed true reform comes through building, not criticism.

A Call to Every Servant

His Holiness concluded with a spiritual appeal: every person should learn from Habib Girgis to have a mission in life, not to live routinely without purpose, but to serve God and others, building oneself spiritually to be able to build others. Every mission requires preparation, knowledge, prayer, and love.

The Everlasting Mission

He emphasized that only the spiritual mission endures beyond death, as seen in the saints and Habib Girgis himself. Whoever lives for God continues to influence others even after departing this life.

For better translation support, please contact the center.