October 26, 1971, marked a turning point in the history of the Coptic Orthodox Church when three candidates were selected to occupy the papal throne following the passing of Pope Cyril VI. Among them was Nazeer Gayed Raphael, later known as Pope Shenouda III, distinguished by his theological expertise, becoming one of Egypt’s most prominent spiritual and national figures of the 20th century.

On Sunday, October 31, 1971, Pope Shenouda III underwent the final selection for the papal throne through the ecclesiastical lottery, a unique rite followed by the Coptic Church to ensure the choice of a saintly, just leader committed to church principles. His selection consecrated him to lead a vast congregation and religious and educational institutions requiring wisdom and insight. This day marked the beginning of a new era in the Coptic Church’s history, where the choice was not merely a position but a great responsibility toward his people and country.

Pope Shenouda III was born on August 3, 1923, in the village of Salam in Assiut Governorate. He began his education in several cities including Damanhur, Alexandria, Assiut, and Banha before completing his secondary education at Al-Iman Secondary School on Badran Island in Shubra, Cairo. From the start, he was distinguished by his love of knowledge and education, beginning his service in church education schools in 1939. He continued his university studies at the Faculty of Arts at Fouad I University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History before joining the Clerical College and graduating in 1949, establishing a long path in teaching and church service.

Since his monastic vows in 1954, Pope Shenouda III’s monastic life was marked by mysticism and scientific research. He became the librarian of the Syrian Monastery and began a life of solitude in 1956. After his ordination as a priest in 1958 and then as Bishop of Education in 1962, he founded multiple educational and spiritual projects, including Sunday schools and the magazine Al-Keraza, marking his true beginnings in church administration and pastoral guidance.

His selection for the papal throne was not just a historical milestone but the start of a reign lasting 40 years, 4 months, and 4 days, during which the Coptic Church witnessed modernization and expansion in education and service, the establishment of cultural and scientific institutions, the launch of satellite channels, and the founding of new dioceses inside and outside Egypt. He also played a distinguished national role, supporting the causes of the nation and the Ummah and participating in peace and ecumenical efforts internationally.

The journey of Pope Shenouda III from among the three candidates to his selection by the ecclesiastical lottery represents a living example of the church’s commitment to spiritual traditions and divine justice in choosing its leaders, affirming that leadership is not merely a position but a continuous service to both church and country.