Coptic leader declines to join in Egypt's 'national dialogue'

CWN - December 11, 2012
Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II has declined an invitation from Egypt's President Mohammed Morsi to join in a "national dialogue," explaining that the Church is not a political institution.

President Morsi, whose move to assume sweeping new powers has provoked strong opposition, evidently wished to enlist Coptic leaders in his bid to negotiate a response to the country's political crisis.

Pope Tawadros replied that the proper role of the Orthodox Church is to pray for Egypt, and leave political bargains to political officials.

Catholic World News (CWN)