The Saints Anba Shenouda and Anba Bishoy

Introduction His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the lives of the saints Anba Shenouda and Anba Bishoy, clarifying that each of them was chosen by the Lord before his birth and in their communion with Christ. The talk includes references to prophecies and signs that appeared before the birth of Anba Shenouda, and to the Lord’s calling of Anba Bishoy as well.

The lives of the saints and their characteristics Anba Bishoy lived in Wadi El-Natrun and in Wadi Matrouh and has a monastery named after him, while Anba Shenouda grew up in Upper Egypt and has a large monastery known as the White Monastery in the desert of Sohag. Both were characterized by monasticism, asceticism, and holiness, and had a strong relationship with Christ and divine appearances.

Miracles and appearances The mention of miracles and appearances repeats in the life of Anba Shenouda, such as ascending to heaven and visions of churches and sermons from the Holy Scripture, and likewise in the life of Anba Bishoy. These miracles were not intended for boasting but indicated their righteousness and closeness to God.

Spiritual influence and teaching Anba Shenouda was a teacher and preacher with strong influence, preserving the Coptic language and clinging to it, and he gathered around him large numbers of people and monks. He fought heresies, like Nestorius, and participated in public councils such as the Council of Ephesus.

Spiritual lessons From their lives we learn the importance of adherence to the Holy Scripture, a life of prayer and asceticism, humility, and fidelity to the faith. It also shows the importance of spiritual leadership and discipleship in transmitting faith and teaching the community.

Conclusion The lives of Anba Shenouda and Anba Bishoy are presented as models of Christian holiness: monk leaders, teachers, and people given a life filled with prayer and miracles for the glorification of God.

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