H.H. Pope Tawadros II.. Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark
His Holiness was born as Wagih Sobhi Baqi Suleiman on 4. November 1952 in the city of Mansoura in Egypt. The name “Tawadros” means “a gift from God” in the Coptic language.
Educational qualifications
In 1975, he received a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Alexandria University.
In 1979, he received a scholarship for industrial pharmacy from Alexandria University.
In 1983, he received a bachelor’s degree in theology from the Clerical College in Alexandria.
In 1985, he was granted a fellowship with the World Health Organization “WHO” by the British International Health Institute.
In 1999, he studied business administration in Singapore.
On March 31st, 2015, he received an Honorary Doctorate from Beni Suef University for supporting the Social Peace.
Professional experiences
He worked in a pharmaceutical company in the ministry of health until he became the manager. When he resigned, he had worked there for 10 years, 10 months and 10 days.
On August 20th, 1986, he joined the monastic life in the Monastery of Saint Pishoy in Wadi El Natrun and on July 31st, 1988, he became a monk with the name Theodore Ava Pishoy.
On February 10th, 1990, he began his service as an ordained priest in the diocese of Beheira, Matruh and other cities.
On June 15th, 1997, he was appointed general bishop for serving the youth and assisting His Eminence Metropolitan Pachomius, Metropolitan of Beheira.
He was also responsible for the children’s issues committee in the Holy Synod.
On November 4th, 2012 – on his 60th birthday – he was chosen to be the 118th Patriarch.
On November 18th, 2012, H.H. Pope Tawadros II was enthroned in a grand traditional ceremony where he was handed over the papal staff, the cross from the holy altar, and the leadership of priesthood. There were thousands of bishops, priests, clergy members and Christian representatives from all over the world, as well as public figures and governmental authorities at the enthronement.
He gave several lectures at universities all around the world (USA, Sweden, Canada, etc.). Also,He has written 25 books and booklets on topics relating to the Holy Bible, the spiritual life, the service and the spiritual servant and the church readings.
Source
Coptic Orthodox Church website.
