A purple patch!

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It's hot wearing clericals in Cairo - even when they're linen! I know that sounds obvious, but remind me never to complain about the heat in Rathfarnham parish again!

Today I finally got to meet with Archbishop Samy in his office here in the Diocesan building. 


He has a huge area of responsibility. 

The province of Alexandria contains the Diocese of Egypt, along with several other Dioceses, and takes in much of North Africa, parts of East and West Africa, and stretches as far east as Somalia!

So, I'm grateful for him taking the time out of his busy schedule to chat about my contribution to ministry in Cairo.

There is a vacancy in the English speaking congregation in the Cathedral, which also has an Arabic, a Sudanese, and other smaller congregations. At the moment it is being covered by a priest with other areas of responsibility.

I'm told that he'll be especially delighted with the extra help.

So, it's parish ministry in a very interesting city-centre environment.

Archbishop Samy gifted me a beautifully illustrated book, written by Bishop Muneer, entitled 'A Beacon of Hope', which tells the story of the development of the Anglican Church in Egypt.

There's also the prospect of visiting the Grand Imam before the celebration of Eid al-Adha next week, along with Bishop Muneer, so that will require ceremonial cassock and cilice! Hotter again!

Eid al-Adha in Islam celbrates adherence to the faith and recalls Abraham's dedication to God. It concludes with a celebration, exchanging gifts and sharing fellowship together.

After a long chat with senior staff in the Christian-Muslim Understanding and Partnership office, which touched on Theology and Pastoral issues and differences between here and  Ireland, I was invited to attend a Wedding Service in a beautifully decorated Coptic Church in the South of the city.

It reminded me very much of an Orthodox Church, with beautiful mosaics and Icons. 

The service was largely sung, with occasional and loud bursts of Zaghrouta, the high pitched ululating vocalisation made by women and which denotes great joy and celebration, and is highly atmospheric!


It was joy to be there, and I was even gifted a small wedding favour candle when I left!

I met Bishop Muneer at the wedding and we hope to have a good chat tomorrow about ministry possibilities and other aspects of work during my time here, perhaps in the interfaith or refugee area.

Overall, a day well spent!

I returned through the hair-raising nighttime traffic tired and hungry, but blessedly unscathed!




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