Former Sinai Archbishop Calls for Unity to Protect St. Catherine Monastery

SINAI, EGYPT — Abp. Damianos of Sinai has called for unity among the monks of the Holy Monastery of St. Catherine and urged dialogue with Egyptian authorities, warning that a proposed agreement regarding the monastery’s future could threaten its historic property rights.

In a letter addressed to the newly elected Abp. Symeon and the monks currently residing at the monastery, Abp. Damianos expressed concern over reports that the agreement being prepared with the Egyptian state could result in the loss of ownership of the monastery’s lands and properties. He called on the brotherhood to set aside internal divisions and work together to protect the monastery’s future.

“The Monastery is not the property of anyone; it is the home of all monks, living and deceased, and at the same time the ecumenical home of the Orthodox world,” Abp. Damianos wrote. He urged the monks to restore unity.

Let us forgive each other; and, reflecting on the centuries-old history of our Monastery, its mission, its contribution to global Orthodoxy and to the sanctuaries of our Nation, let us give a joint struggle with self-sacrifice to protect it and give it what it historically deserves.

The Archbishop said any agreement must include clear recognition of the monastery’s ownership rights, its legal personality, Egyptian citizenship for the presiding Archbishop, and long-term residence permits for the monks. He warned that an arrangement based only on possession or use of the property would leave the monastery vulnerable in the future.

“The Sinai Monastery is not just a monument; it is a living testimony of centuries, a light in the desert, an ark of spirituality and peace,” Abp. Damianos wrote. He added that he remained ready, despite his advanced age, to support the monastery’s defense “as a simple soldier.”

Previously, the UOJ reported that St. Catherine’s Monastery awaited a decree as tourism pressures grew.