Pope Theodoros II
I will therefore write the article about Pope Tawadros II.
Pope Tawadros II – Life, Leadership, and Notable Sayings
Discover the life, path, and spiritual vision of Pope Tawadros II (born November 4, 1952), 118th Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, a leading figure in the modern Coptic Orthodox Church.
Introduction
Pope Tawadros II (Coptic: Ⲡⲁⲡⲁ Ⲑⲉⲱⲇⲟⲣⲟⲥ Ⲃʹ) is the spiritual leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, serving as its 118th Pope and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark since 2012. Born in Egypt, he has navigated a period of political upheaval, religious change, and challenges to Christianity’s place in Egyptian society. His papacy is marked by efforts at pastoral outreach, church renewal, and engagement with pressing social issues.
In what follows, we explore his early life, formation, rise to the papacy, influence, character, and some of his notable statements.
Early Life and Family
Pope Tawadros II was born Wagih Subhi Baki Soliman (also transliterated Wāǧīh Ṣubḥī Bāqī Sulaymān) on November 4, 1952, in Mansoura, Egypt.
He studied pharmacy at Alexandria University, graduating in 1975.
Monastic Calling, Ordination & Rise
Tawadros entered the Monastery of Saint Pishoy in Wadi Natrun, one of the central monastic centers in Egyptian Coptic Christianity.
He was ordained a priest in 1989. 1997, he was consecrated as a general bishop (sometimes called “bishop without a fixed diocese”) by his predecessor Pope Shenouda III, assigned to the Diocese of Behira (in Egypt’s Nile Delta).
On 18 November 2012, two weeks after being selected, he officially assumed the papacy of Alexandria and became the head of the Coptic Orthodox Church.
As Pope, he took the name Tawadros II (Tawadros = Theodore in Greek / English) in the Coptic tradition.
Tenure as Pope & Patriarch
Spiritual and Institutional Focus
Pope Tawadros II has emphasized internal renewal, pastoral care, education, and strengthening the identity of Coptic Christians within Egypt. He has argued that the Church must be active in society, addressing challenges faced by Christians, while maintaining spiritual integrity.
His papacy has faced significant trials, including sectarian violence, political instability, and pressures on religious minorities in Egypt. Under his leadership, the Church has sought to balance prophetic voice with diplomatic engagement.
Key Events & Challenges
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In 2017, just before Palm Sunday, a bomb exploded near the cathedral in Cairo, killing and injuring worshippers. Pope Tawadros narrowly escaped harm.
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He has spoken publicly on Egypt’s constitutional and political shifts, sometimes aligning with reforms or transitional governments as he sees fit for community protection.
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He has also supported national stability and the place of Article 2 of the Egyptian constitution, which affirms the role of Sharia as a source of legislation, as a guard for Christian minority rights.
Interfaith & Ecumenical Relations
Pope Tawadros II engages in ecumenical dialogue with other Christian denominations and with Muslim leaders. He often frames the Coptic Church’s role in Egypt as bridging faith with national unity, calling for tolerance and mutual respect.
During times of national strife, he has issued statements calling for peace, reconciliation, and protection of minority rights.
Legacy, Influence & Impact
Pope Tawadros II’s leadership is still evolving, but several elements stand out:
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Stabilizing presence: In periods of political turbulence in Egypt (post-Arab Spring), his role as religious leader gives many Coptic believers a figure of continuity.
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Modernizing impulses: He has pushed for more active laity participation, social outreach projects, and church institutions attuned to contemporary issues.
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Protecting identity: He frequently addresses the challenges faced by Christian minority communities in Egypt, advocating for equality and security.
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Global Coptic diaspora: He also shepherds the Coptic diaspora abroad, strengthening connections with Copts in North America, Europe, and elsewhere.
His papacy is notable for confronting external pressures on Christians in the Middle East, while seeking to maintain traditional spiritual roots and ecclesial authority.
Personality & Traits
Pope Tawadros II is seen as earnest, pastoral, and pragmatic. He values humility and often speaks about the Church’s role as servant and protector. Given his background in secular (pharmaceutical) work before monastic life, he brings both administrative experience and spiritual insight to his role.
He tends to emphasize calm and steady leadership rather than overt confrontation. At times, he has navigated between prophetic stances and ensuring the safety and continuity of the Church in a challenging sociopolitical environment.
Notable Statements & Teachings
While not known for a large anthology of pithy aphorisms, some of his public statements reflect his orientation:
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On church service: He has said that the Church must begin by “organizing the house from within,” focusing first on internal strength before external engagement.
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On national change: He spoke during Egypt’s shifts that the Coptic Church must remain a stabilizing moral anchor, while also evolving to meet new demands.
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In response to violence: He has called for forgiveness, peace, and resilience, urging believers not to respond with hatred but to uphold Christian witness.
Because much of his communication is in sermons, pastoral letters, and church statements in Arabic and Coptic, fewer quotes in English circulate widely.
Lessons from Pope Tawadros II
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Stewardship in times of flux: A religious leader in a volatile context must balance prophetic criticism with protecting the community.
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Adaptation rooted in tradition: Reform does not necessarily mean abandoning heritage; Tawadros tries to modernize while preserving Coptic identity.
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Pastoral presence matters: In communities facing insecurity, the presence of a pastoral rather than purely theological leader can be stabilizing.
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Dialogue over isolation: His approach underscores the need for interfaith engagement and civic discourse rather than withdrawing into enclaves.
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Humility in leadership: His background before the pulpit and consistent emphasis on service reflect a humility-based approach to authority.
Conclusion
Pope Tawadros II, born November 4, 1952, has taken on one of the most demanding spiritual roles in Egypt’s religious landscape. As the 118th Pope and Patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church, he leads his flock through challenges of identity, security, and relevance. His life—from pharmacist to monk to patriarch—embodies a journey of transformation and service.