Minister of Social Solidarity Maya Morsi, Head of the Technical Secretariat of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work Nabila Makram, and Cairo Governor Ibrahim Saber attended the event.
Several metropolitans, bishops, and priests of the Coptic Church joined the celebration, along with representatives of other Christian denominations, public figures, diplomats, and church members from across Egypt.
During the ceremony, Pope Tawadros II unveiled a commemorative plaque and toured an exhibition featuring historical artefacts collected over the church’s century-long history.
In his address, the pope highlighted the vital role of women in church life, particularly in service, contemplation, and spiritual leadership, and recalled that the church was first inaugurated during the papacy of Pope Cyril V of Alexandria, the 112th patriarch.
Saint Mary Church, where the Virgin Mary was said to have appeared in 1968, is considered one of the most important churches in the Coptic Orthodox tradition.
It has recently been reconsecrated following extensive restoration and development works aimed at preserving its historical and spiritual significance while maintaining its distinctive blend of heritage and modern architecture.
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