Response to the ideas of dissident monk Daniel Al-Baramousi
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the danger of introducing non-Orthodox practices into the Coptic Church, especially those known as charismatic methods borrowed from some Protestant groups, such as the so-called “imparting of power” or “falling by the Spirit.”
His Holiness emphasizes that the Holy Spirit does not act in such emotional or physical ways, and that people falling to the ground or being covered with sheets is not the work of God, but rather human or psychological influence, imitating practices foreign to the Church’s spirit.
He insists that true Orthodox faith is not measured by emotions or external displays, but by calmness, humility, and inner spiritual life. The Holy Spirit is given through the holy sacraments of the Church, not through shouting, touching, or emotional ceremonies.
Pope Shenouda firmly rejects allowing shouting, dancing, or disorderly movements inside churches, affirming that such behavior does not belong to the traditions of the Holy Fathers.
His Holiness explains that the Church acts with both wisdom and love, yet remains firm in defending the true faith. Any deviation in teaching or practice must be corrected immediately — not by attacking individuals, but by clarifying doctrine.
In conclusion, Pope Shenouda calls all believers to hold steadfastly to the Orthodox faith as received from the Fathers, and to pass it unchanged to the coming generations, for the Coptic Orthodox Church preserves the true faith with humility and steadfastness.
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