On Thursday, 13 February 2025, Anba Ermia, General Bishop, President of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center, and Assistant Secretary-General of the Egyptian Family House, received Dr. Michel Abs, Secretary-General of the Middle East Council of Churches, along with a delegation from the council at the center’s headquarters in Cairo.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Guirguis Saleh, Honorary Secretary-General of the Middle East Council of Churches; Rev. Dr. Rifaat Fikry, Associate Secretary-General; and Ms. Lea Adel Maamari, Media Officer and Coordinator of Church and Media Relations at the council.
Following the reception, Anba Ermia welcomed Professor Michel Abs and the council delegation, emphasizing that their visit reflects the values of love, unity, and shared Christian work for the benefit of humanity and society. He also praised the council’s media advancements, highlighting its ability to address contemporary realities and engage with key ecclesiastical, social, and media issues.
In response, Professor Michel Abs expressed his gratitude to Anba Ermia, stressing the deep brotherhood between them and commending his efforts through the center, ME Sat channel, and the Egyptian Family House. He described these initiatives as exemplary in thought, creativity, service, and generosity.
The discussions also touched on the topic of dialogue and how it can be effectively implemented by the council and church institutions. The two sides exchanged perspectives on the challenges facing the region, affirming that dialogue is a fundamental aspect of human existence and the key to intellectual, cultural, and educational engagement with others. They also highlighted its essential role in ensuring peace within society.
Later, Ms. Lea Adel Maamari presented an overview of the council’s 2025 media strategy and its planned developments. Anba Ermia welcomed the proposals, expressing his readiness, along with the center and ME Sat, for full cooperation and content exchange to promote constructive and meaningful communication.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Anba Ermia presented Dr. Michel Abs and the council delegation with new books and publications.
