116th Pope of Alexandria (1959-1971)

Remembering Pope Kyrillos VI

On March 9th, the Coptic Orthodox Church honors the departure of Pope Kyrillos VI, the 116th Pope of Alexandria, and a successor to Saint Mark the Evangelist. Serving from 1959 to 1971, Pope Kyrillos VI led the Coptic Church into a new era of spirituality with his deep dedication to prayer and fasting. He was admired across Egypt by both Christians and non-Christians, known for his humility, miraculous acts, and spiritual guidance.

Early Life and Path to Monasticism

Pope Kyrillos VI was born Azer Ata on August 2, 1902. His father was a church deacon, and Azer grew up in a middle-class family. After finishing high school, he worked for a shipping company in Alexandria. Despite his family’s wishes, Azer felt called to a life of monasticism. In 1927, he joined the Monastery of El-Baramous, where he was ordained as a monk the following year and took the name Mina, after his patron saint, Saint Mina.

Father Mina’s commitment to God was so intense that he sought solitude in the desert, a decision that others found surprising given his young age and relatively short time as a monk. Despite opposition, he pursued this path, spending years in isolation, prayer, and contemplation.

Life of Solitude and Service

Father Mina’s desire for solitude took him to various places, including a cave near the El-Natron Valley and later to a deserted windmill on the outskirts of Cairo. Despite the dangers and hardships, his love for God gave him strength to endure. In these years, he built a church in Ancient Cairo under the name of Saint Mina and lived a life of humility, often performing menial tasks in secret to serve others.

Becoming Pope and Leading with Humility

On May 10, 1959, Father Mina was ordained as Pope Kyrillos VI. From his first day as Pope, he made it clear that he saw himself as a servant of all people. He would stand for hours, blessing and listening to people, regardless of his own fatigue. He abolished barriers between himself and others, making himself available to everyone in need, day or night. His devotion and humility were a testament to his spiritual leadership.

A Life of Miracles and Faith

Pope Kyrillos VI was known for performing numerous miracles, which are documented in more than 18 volumes. These acts of healing, solving problems, and revealing secrets strengthened many people’s faith and drew them closer to God. Stories of his miracles continue to inspire people even today, illustrating the power of faith and prayer.

His Daily Life and Spiritual Practices

Pope Kyrillos VI dedicated his life to prayer, often waking up as early as 3:00 or 4:00 a.m. to begin his spiritual day with the Holy Psalmody. He is believed to have prayed more than 12,000 masses throughout his life. This deep spiritual practice was the source of his strength, and he encouraged others to seek God earnestly in their daily lives.

Significant Achievements During His Papacy

Pope Kyrillos VI accomplished many remarkable achievements during his time as Pope, including:

• Restoration and Expansion: Renovating the ancient Cathedral of Saint Mark, establishing the Monastery of Saint Mina at Mariout, and building the new Saint Mark’s Cathedral at Anba Rouis.
• Global Outreach: For the first time in history, he established Coptic Orthodox churches in Asia, North America, Canada, and Australia, and sent priests to serve in Europe and Africa.
• Return of Saint Mark’s Relics: Under his papacy, the relics of Saint Mark, founder of the Coptic Church, were returned to Egypt from Rome. This event was accompanied by miraculous occurrences, further affirming the importance of his papacy.

His Passing and Legacy

Pope Kyrillos VI passed away on March 9, 1971, after a lifetime of spiritual service and leadership. Initially buried under the altar in the Great Cathedral in Cairo, his body was later moved to the Monastery of Saint Mina, as per his wishes. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the spiritual strength he brought to the Coptic Orthodox Church.

May the prayers and intercessions of Pope Saint Kyrillos VI, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Saint Mina be with us always. Glory be to God forever. Amen.

“Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” – (Nehemiah 8:10)