The prayers were attended by metropolitans and bishops representing dioceses of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Europe, the United States, and Australia, in addition to members of the Holy Synod’s secretariat.
In his sermon, Pope Tawadros II reflected on four saints commemorated during the month of May, beginning with Saint George, known in the Coptic tradition as the “Prince of Martyrs,” whose martyrdom is commemorated on 1 May.
He also spoke about Saint Mark the Apostle, commemorated on 8 May, noting that he came from Libya and was martyred in Alexandria, which became the first country in Africa to embrace Christianity.
The pope described Saint Mark as the first patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church and a central figure in Egypt’s Christian heritage.
The sermon also highlighted Saint Athanasius the Apostolic, commemorated on 15 May, praising his role in defending Christian doctrine against the Arian heresy.
Pope Tawadros noted that part of Saint Athanasius’s relics is preserved at St Mark’s Cathedral in Abbassia after being gifted by the Catholic Church to the Coptic Orthodox Church.
He further referred to Saint Demiana, describing her as a symbol of gentleness and faithfulness whose witness to Christianity led her father back to the faith.
“These four examples of sainthood affirm that holiness is attainable for all,” Pope Tawadros said, calling on believers to remain faithful and committed to Christian teachings.
The relationship between Venice and Saint Mark dates back to 828 AD, when two Venetian merchants transported the saint’s relics from Alexandria to Venice.
A church was subsequently built in his name to house the relics, and Saint Mark later became the patron saint of the city, while the winged lion — his traditional symbol — became the emblem of Venice.
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