In this sermon, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the life of Saint Habib Girgis, the founder of Christian religious education and Sunday Schools in the Coptic Orthodox Church, presenting him as an example of a man who lived a true mission for God, the Church, and society.

1. A Life of Work and Faith:
Habib Girgis lived in a difficult time with no resources or support. Yet he never complained. Instead, he created possibilities through faith and perseverance. He founded the Seminary, Sunday Schools, and a theological library, and became the pioneer of Christian education in the Church.

2. A Humble and Dedicated Servant:
He lived a celibate and devoted life, dedicating every moment to service and teaching. He did not seek positions or titles, but spiritual fruit. He was a true deacon—gentle, pure, and full of love for God.

3. Constructive and Positive Spirit:
He never criticized the Church but worked to build it. When he found lack, he created solutions. That’s why he was rightly called the Pioneer of Religious Education—he opened the way for generations to come.

4. Spiritual and Human Influence:
Pope Shenouda described him as a spiritual father whose wisdom and calmness deeply influenced him. Habib Girgis lived like the wheat in Christ’s parable—growing and bearing fruit without uprooting others.

5. The Message of Life:
The Pope calls every person to have a mission in life—not just to live for daily needs but to serve God and others. A true spiritual mission endures beyond death, as seen in the saints whose works still inspire today.

6. Living the Mission:
Build yourself spiritually so that God may use you to build others. Be faithful in little things, and God will entrust you with greater things. Let love fill your heart so deeply that it overflows naturally into service and compassion.

Conclusion:
A person with a mission does not live in vain. They leave an everlasting mark, just like Saint Habib Girgis, who taught that real faith is lived, not spoken, and that true service is the fruit of sincere love for God and humanity.

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