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April 12, 2017
His Holiness Pope Tawadros II
Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the Holy See of St. Mark,
Your Holiness:
It was with astonishment and great angst we learned of the terroristic bombings on Palm Sunday in Tanta and Alexandria. Once again, hate has come to your congregations, and it makes our hearts hurt for you and the Christian brothers and sisters you lead. We watched the news reports with horror, and now we come together to express our sincere sympathy.
Please know The United Methodist Church grieves with you. As a part of the Universal Body of Christ, we acknowledge your pain is our pain, and we stand with you in this dark time. During this Holy Week, as we commemorate our Savior’s walk toward the cross and ultimately toward resurrection, it is our collective prayer you will sense Christ’s distinct presence with you. May there be a connection with Him that will bring a balm to the overwhelming grief.
Please convey our sympathy to the family and friends of the victims. We join the universal Church of Jesus Christ in prayer for you and for God’s world.
With hope and faith,
Bruce Ough
Bishop Bruce R. Ough
President – Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
Mike Watson
Bishop B. Michael Watson
Ecumenical Officer - Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
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