An Egyptian court ruling concerning St. Catherine's Monastery in Sinai has generated significant controversy. The court's decision allows the monks to utilize the monastery and surrounding areas while maintaining state ownership. This ruling has drawn condemnation from the Greek Orthodox Church, which perceives it as a threat to religious freedoms and a disruption of historical practices. The Archbishop of Athens and All Greece has called for protection of the monastery from the Greek government and international bodies. However, Egypt's presidential office has stated the ruling reinforces the monastery's importance, reaffirming its commitment to preserving its status.
26 days ago
An Egyptian appeals court in Ismailia has ruled that while monks of St. Catherine’s Monastery can use the monastery and its surrounding religious sites, the property remains under state ownership 1. This decision has triggered significant reactions from religious and political entities 1.
The Greek Orthodox Church has voiced strong opposition, with Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens denouncing the ruling as a violation of religious freedoms 1. He expressed fears of property seizure and a threat to the monastery's existence, urging international intervention 1. The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem also expressed concern over the "seizure of lands" surrounding the monastery 1.
In response to the outcry, the Egyptian presidential office reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the monastery's religious status, emphasizing the ruling reinforces its importance 1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any confiscation of the monastery or its lands, clarifying the ruling formalizes its legal status 1. The government maintains the monks retain full use of the monastery and nearby sites, with only remote, uninhabited natural reserve areas without ownership documents falling under state jurisdiction 1.
Founded over 1,500 years ago, St. Catherine’s Monastery is a vital Christian landmark in Egypt, renowned for its ancient heritage, biblical importance, and global spiritual symbolism 1. The monastery houses a priceless collection of Byzantine icons and ancient manuscripts 1.
The Church defines religious freedom and property rights.
The Catholic Church defines both religious freedom and property rights, emphasizing their importance while also outlining their limits and social responsibilities.
The Church views religious freedom as a fundamental human right rooted in the dignity of the human person . This right is acknowledged through both divine revelation and human reason .
The Church recognizes the natural right to private property but emphasizes that it is not an absolute right . This right is seen within the broader context of the universal destination of goods, meaning that the goods of creation are meant for everyone .
In summary, the Church upholds both religious freedom and property rights as essential, yet not absolute. Religious freedom is grounded in human dignity and the search for truth, while property rights are balanced by the principle of the universal destination of goods and the social responsibility of owners. Both concepts are defined to promote individual fulfillment and the common good within a just society.