Breakfast at the Papal Residence
His Holiness Pope Shenouda greets the attendees from scholars, preachers, political leaders, ambassadors and media people and thanks them for participating in the Ramadan iftar table.
Fasting as a spiritual time
His Holiness affirms that fasting is a spiritual period in which the hearts rise to God, and the spirit is nourished by prayer, contemplation, and the Word of God, and the body shares in this spiritual uplift.
Complete fasting (tongue, mind, and heart)
He explains that fasting is not merely abstaining from food but includes fasting of the tongue from wrong, fasting of the mind from evil, and fasting of the heart from wrongful intentions, and it is a virtue for the soul and spirit before it is for the body.
Places of encounter and love between Muslims and Christians
He emphasizes that the iftar tables are not only food but “tables of love” that gather hearts and exchange good feelings, and that the relationship of love between Christians and Muslims is historically rooted in Egypt for more than fourteen centuries.
A call to expand meetings and dialogues
His Holiness calls that meetings should not remain merely seasonal, but become a permanent social practice in cities, villages and neighborhoods, and that seminars and popular communication forms be organized to deepen unity and love.
Historical examples of national unity
His Holiness recalls historical episodes that show the cooperation of Muslims and Christians on national issues (revolts and national movements) and notes that this national spirit appeared in many situations across time.
Nature symbols as examples of love
He cites the ability of the tree, the river and the flower to give without discrimination as an example that calls to grant love to everyone regardless of religion or color.
Practical initiatives and exchange of visits
His Holiness mentions his visits to Al-Azhar and the Ministry of Awqaf and the cooperation of religious figures such as Dr. Mohamed Ali Mahboub and Dr. Sayed Mohamed, and announces his readiness for visits that draw hearts closer.
Conclusion, thanks and presenting a symbolic gift
He concludes by thanking the attendees and praying for a blessed life, and presents a national gift — two artistic works symbolizing unity and peace — to the President (two copies of a symbolic piece that express unity and national harmony) as a sign of love and national concord.
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