The Coptic Orthodox Church organized Monday a celebration to honor former interim president Adli Mansour for his role in leading the country through the transitional phase.
During the ceremony, Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Patriarch of the St. Mark Diocese said Mansour took over the presidency in difficult circumstances.
"Our country was on the verge of collapse, but God chose Adli Mansour to lead Egypt and guide it to safety during this difficult period. Despite his short-term presidency, he succeeded in his mission," the Pope added.
Mansour's visit to St. Mark's Cathedral in January to greet Copts on Christmas was an unprecedented act by an Egyptian president, he said. The visit reflected the good feelings shared between Egypt's Muslims and Copts, he added.