Coptic Orthodox Church prays for new president of Egypt

HG Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom has issued the following statement on the announcement of the new president of Egypt today.

With the announcement of Mr Mohammed Mursi as president, this signifies a new step in the continuing process of change through which Egypt has been travelling over the past sixteen months. This process has come at great cost, and after much dedication and commitment from so many, having been inspired by the faithfulness and courage of the Egyptian people, and leading some to offer even the ultimate sacrifice of their lives.

We pray that God grant him wisdom to govern Egypt and her people, and hope this heralds a smooth transition to continuing democracy, leading to positive reform and the building of a new ethos that is cohesive, instilling a sense of citizenship, ownership and responsibility into every Egyptian. This is the time for Egypt to become a nation that does not focus on a person's religious or political stance, but more on his or her contribution and accountability to a single nation state and equality before the law.

We call for an Egypt for all, one that takes into consideration the value and rights of every citizen, and pray for the new president as he takes on this responsibility. We hope that throughout his service, it is the good of the people of Egypt that will always be core to the decisions he makes at this formative stage and throughout his period in office.

Egypt is a land blessed by God, Who has promised that He will keep her and her people close to His heart, and for this reason we are confident that in the days, months and years ahead, He will continue to safeguard and protect her people and lead them to a greater good.

The full statement can be read here: www.CopticCentre.Blogspot.com