Making Connections

Rev Mike Buchanan: May 20th 2026

This morning after a light breakfast, I met with Bishop Mouneer in his office.

Although retired now for several years, he is the author and the driving force behind the Centre of Christian-Muslim Understanding and Partnership, and it appears that he hasn't really slowed down at all.

By its very nature, the Centre is built on friendships and trust, and this is very important to the Bishop.

During his time as head of the Diocese, the Bishop built strong and lasting links across the faith divide, and is responsible for not only building cross-community links and relationships, but in championing several major projects which required real partnership and co-operation.

These include conflict resolution and peace building, environmental and joint community initiatives aimed at creating a sustainable, eco-friendly environment in a very busy cityscape, and most importantly, a project entitled 'A Journey of Learning', which brings together Christians and Muslims, including lay and clerical, in a way that teaches each community about the other and dispels mistrust, suspicion, and negativity.

Now these are projects which we could learn a great deal from in our western culture!

As the Bishop explained, these projects are only possible when each faith respects the other, and engages in dialogue that is honest, faith-centred, and non-judgmental.

And the fruits speak for themselves.

Both communities regularly co-operate in a growing series of projects that include music, the arts, faith, practical crafts and business, and mutual learning.

(These are my own words, by the way. I am impressed!)

In the spirit of faith and respect, tomorrow I don my cassock to visit the Grand Imam in Cairo, in the company of Bishop Mouneer prior to the festival of Eid next week.

I am looking forward to it immensely.

I should also say that I feel very comfortable walking the streets here in clericals. The people here are very respectful, always friendly and certainly good-humoured. They feel they have a lot in common with the Irish in this regard! And I agree.

I also met with Dean Hany of the Cathedral this afternoon, and he is looking forward to having another 'Father' to minister to the English speaking congregation. So, I'm excited to be invited to celebrate Holy Communion, which is always celebrated each Friday and Sunday (the weekend here in Egypt).

Bishop Mouneer is also very keen for me to schedule a visit to Giza and the Pyramids, as well as the

Great Egyptian Museum (which looks incredible), and the city of Alexandria, a great centre for learning in the early Church. Egyptians are rightly proud of their culture!

So, its off to my temporary office, which has been provided for me in the boardroom, to work on a schedule.

I feel a busy few weeks lie ahead!