Coptic Orthodox Patriarch answers MECC Beirut appeal

In a gesture of love and solidarity and as an expression of brotherhood between the Egyptian and Lebanese citizens, His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria answered the MECC Beirut appeal in response to the Port Explosion, which occurred on the 4th of August, by relieving the devastated Beirut and its afflicted people. This first contribution was a shipment of food aid and medicines transferred to Beirut airport on board two military aircrafts that arrived through a military airlift by the order of Egyptian President Mohamed Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to send aid from Egypt to Beirut.

The shipment included 26 tons of aid and relief supplies offered by the Coptic Church with the slogan “God is Love” and by the Holy Azhar. The two planes were received by a delegation from the Egyptian embassy in Lebanon, which was presided by Dr. Yasser Alawi, Egyptian ambassador in Lebanon. Moreover, a delegation from the Middle East Council of Churches,  which was presided by Fr. Gaby Hachem, a representative of Al-Azhar in Lebanon, the representative of Dar Al-Fatwa Sheikh Zuhair Kubba, and representatives of the Lebanese and Egyptian armies, were present at the event.

The Middle East Council of Churches represented by Father Gaby Hashem thanked the Egyptians, especially His Holiness Pope Tawadros, who always carried Lebanon in his heart, for their solidarity and love during these sad days. Fr. Hachem also thanked President Sisi, who showed solidarity and love that exceeded expectations. Furthermore, he had affirmed that the MECC continues its historical and humanitarian mission as its team in Beirut is striving to receive relief aid from the churches, partners and friends in various countries of the world, so they can all participate in restoring life to Beirut and in supporting its citizens by reestablishing their homes and their human dignity.

Click here to see pictures in the article as published originally on the MECC website.