Archbishop Elpidophoros Urges Egypt to Protect Saint Catherine’s Monastery

Archbishop Elpidophoros of America has issued a heartfelt appeal to the Egyptian government and the international community over a recent Egyptian court ruling that threatens the future of the Holy Monastery of Saint Catherine on Mount Sinai—a revered Orthodox Christian site and UNESCO World Heritage landmark.

In a strongly worded statement, the Archbishop expressed “profound concern and deep sorrow” over legal actions that could result in the confiscation of the monastery’s property and a disruption of its centuries-old spiritual mission. He warned that such developments endanger both religious freedom and one of the world’s most significant cultural and historical monuments.

Founded in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, the Holy Monastery of Saint Catherine is the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery in the world. It stands at the biblical location where Moses is believed to have encountered the Burning Bush and received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. The site is revered not only by Christians, but also by Jews and Muslims.

"The monastery is more than a sacred Christian site—it is a symbol of interreligious harmony and a beacon of spiritual heritage that belongs to all humanity," said Archbishop Elpidophoros. He highlighted its historic role in fostering peace among communities and preserving early Christian manuscripts and icons, including the monastery's unparalleled collection of pre-iconoclastic panel icons housed in the ancient Sinai library.

Archbishop Elpidophoros called on the Egyptian authorities to honor longstanding protections granted to the monastery, noting that it has maintained peaceful relations with successive governments for over 1,400 years.

In May 2023, the Archbishop led a pilgrimage of Greek Americans to the sacred site, emphasizing its continued role as a place of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection. “Our visit reaffirmed the monastery’s role as a living monument to faith and resilience,” he said.

He urged religious leaders, international bodies, and people of all faiths to advocate for the monastery's preservation, warning that the recent judicial decision poses a serious threat not only to the monastic community, but also to global efforts to protect cultural and religious heritage.

“It is imperative that the Egyptian government honors its commitments to safeguard the monastery’s autonomy and legacy,” he concluded. “We must ensure that this sacred institution continues to inspire and unite people of all faiths for generations to come.”

The statement has already sparked concern among Orthodox Christian communities worldwide, with calls growing for diplomatic engagement to protect the monastery’s future.