Among the series of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center Book issues
Recently issued: The Great Friday book
By: His Holiness Pope Theophilus, the 23rd Patriarch of Alexandria
Foreword
“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5)
The journey of the cross, about which Prophet Isaiah had prophesized more than seven centuries before the Nativity, is the journey of the divine love that God presented to humankind, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Thus, humankind walked towards heaven through this great Salvation through the Cross.
Fathers have presented to us much contemplation on the Great Friday; among which is this booklet by Pope Theophilus, the 23rd Patriarch of Alexandria. It contains profound contemplations on the cross, the accomplishment of the Salvation and the love and forgiveness of Lord Christ.
We present this booklet, asking the Lord to make it a reason of blessing to all who read it, as we express thanks to Mr. Botros Karam Sadeq for his efforts in translating the book, as well as the Reverend Father Priest Louka Youssef Rezq, the priest of St. Mina’s Church in Al Warraq and the researcher at the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center for revising the translation, through the prayers of our Lady, St. Virgin Mary, the theotokos, St. Mark the Apostle, the preacher of Egyptian homes, Saint Pope Theophilus and through the prayers of His Holiness Great Pope Tawadros II, the Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark.
25th of March, 2018 AD 16th of Baramhat, 1731 AM
The departure of the 46th Pope, Kha’il
Bishop Ermia The General Bishop Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center