Pope Francis and Pope Tawadros II Unite Coptic Orthodox Martyrs with Roman Martyrology

The historic announcement made by Pope Francis and Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II has brought the two Christian Churches closer together in a sign of spiritual communion. The decision to insert 21 Coptic Orthodox martyrs into the Roman Martyrology of the Catholic Church signifies a significant step towards unity between the two Churches.

The martyrs, who were beheaded in Libya in 2015 by militants of the Islamic State, were honored by Pope Francis during an audience with Pope Tawadros II in the Vatican. The Coptic Orthodox Church celebrates their feast day on 15 February, the date they were martyred.

Pope Francis expressed his desire for greater Christian unity, stating, “May the prayers of the Coptic martyrs, united with those of the Theotokos, continue to help our Churches grow in friendship.” The gesture of including the martyrs in the Roman Martyrology serves as a symbol of the spiritual bond between the Catholic and Coptic Orthodox Churches.

Pope Tawadros II, in a press conference at the Vatican, shared the significance of the martyrs’ bodies being exhumed and brought to Egypt, where a shrine was built in their honor. He emphasized the importance of invoking the intercession of the martyrs for blessings and unity.

The Coptic Pope also outlined four steps towards reconciliation and Christian unity, highlighting the importance of fraternity in Christ, mutual understanding, dialogue, and prayer. He expressed his belief that the Holy Spirit is guiding the journey towards unity between the two Churches.

The inclusion of non-Catholic Christians in the Roman Martyrology is not unprecedented, as several Orthodox saints have been added to the list in the past. The decision to include the 21 Coptic Orthodox martyrs further demonstrates the commitment to fostering unity and understanding between different Christian denominations.