Press Release: Statement by HG Bishop Angaelos on the announced resignation of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate use
11 February 2013

The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Media and Communications Office

It is with great sorrow that we received the news that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI is to 'renounce the ministry of  Bishop of Rome'. While only having served as head and father of the Roman Catholic Church worldwide for a relatively short period, we have seen his great contributions and powerful advocacy not only for his own flock, but also for fellow Christians and other communities throughout the Middle East and the world.

Serving as Co-Chair of the Catholic-Oriental Orthodox Regional Forum, I share a very cherished and personal relationship with the Roman Catholic Church here in the United Kingdom, and have had the blessing and honour of meeting with His Holiness during his significant and historic visit to the United Kingdom in 2010. The impact of that visit, and his other visits around the world, is still being felt today.

We pray good health for His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, and blessing and guidance for our sister Roman Catholic Church, both here in the United Kingdom and globally, during this interim period and in the selection of a new head and father.

*ENDS*

For more information please contact our media and public relations office:

Angela Mikhail

Media and Communications Officer
The Coptic Orthodox Church UK
Tel: +44 (0)207 1937076

Media and Public Relations Office
The Coptic Orthodox Church Centre
Shephalbury Manor
Broadhall Way, Stevenage
Hertfordshire SG2 8NP
England, United Kingdom

Tel.: +44 (0)207 1937076
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