Within the framework of a national dialogue aimed at consolidating the values of tolerance and promoting peaceful coexistence, His Eminence Bishop Ermia, General Bishop, President of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center, and Assistant Secretary-General of the Egyptian Family House, participated in a special episode of the program “The Citizen and the Official” aired on Al Shams TV, titled: “Religious Tolerance and Its Role in Building a Safe and Stable Society,” on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
The episode featured Dr. Mokhtar Gomaa, former Minister of Endowments, and Dr. Hani Tammam, professor at Al-Azhar University. The guests discussed several intellectual and social issues related to the importance of promoting a culture of tolerance and acceptance of others, as well as the role of religious institutions in supporting societal stability and confronting extremist ideas.
In his opening remarks, Bishop Ermia thanked the program’s management for the kind invitation, noting that the name “Al Shams” (The Sun) carries a beautiful symbolic meaning, as it shines on everyone without discrimination—good and bad alike—reflecting the media’s mission in spreading light, knowledge, and love among people.
His Eminence expressed his appreciation for Dr. Mokhtar Gomaa, praising his efforts and positions in supporting peace, protecting the nation, and strengthening the values of tolerance. He also welcomed Dr. Hani Tammam, emphasizing the importance of this meeting, which brings together religious and intellectual figures in one dialogue that enhances the values of citizenship.
Bishop Ermia affirmed that Egypt, throughout its long history, has always been a land of safety and refuge, embracing prophets and saints and serving as a haven of peace across the ages, reflecting its enduring nature of embracing all and rejecting violence and extremism.
He explained that true tolerance begins within, as a person achieves peace with God, with oneself, and with others. This inner peace directly reflects on one’s behavior and interactions within society, leading to acceptance of others and respect for their rights and freedoms.
He further stressed that all religions agree on the values of peace, love, and rejection of violence, citing religious teachings that call for mutual understanding and coexistence. He affirmed that the absence of tolerance leads to hatred and conflict, while peace leads to prosperity and nation-building.
Bishop Ermia concluded by highlighting the importance of shared human values among citizens of one nation, stressing that cooperation and dialogue among all parties are the true path toward building a safe and stable society filled with peace and love.
During the episode, the participants affirmed that religious tolerance is a fundamental pillar for building stable societies, and that promoting dialogue and mutual understanding among citizens helps protect national unity and strengthen the spirit of citizenship.
They also emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between religious, cultural, and media institutions to spread correct awareness, confront misconceptions, and reinforce values of peaceful coexistence based on mutual respect and acceptance of others.
The episode concluded with an affirmation that building a safe and stable society begins with embedding a culture of tolerance and acceptance of diversity, as these are the foundations of true development and societal progress.
