There is no doubt that some life stories bring comfort and inspiration when we remember them because of the spiritual virtues of those who lived them and the unforgettable examples they set. Among these is the life of Archpriest Antonious Thabet Shenouda, Vicar of the Diocese of London and its affiliated regions, who departed this world about a year ago (July 8, 2025).
Father Antonious devoted many long years to serving the Lord. He was truly a man of God, living a life marked by love for God and His people. He dedicated his entire life to God, and his life was filled with moments that reflected his deep relationship with the Lord. His spiritual journey and ministry began while he was still a young man, when his name was Samir Thabet Shenouda, before receiving the grace of the priesthood. He was deeply influenced by the example and teachings of his parents, having grown up in a home filled with love for God and His Holy Scriptures. This upbringing inspired his lifelong commitment to serving God’s people through the Church.
As a young man, he became known to Pope Kyrillos VI (Cyril VI), who held him in great affection during his service at St. Mary the Virgin Church in Moharram Bek, Alexandria. His Holiness had wished to ordain him as a priest for that church. Although this did not happen during Pope Kyrillos VI’s lifetime, it was later fulfilled by the late Pope Shenouda III, who ordained him to serve at St. Mark’s Church in Alexandria. Pope Shenouda III also held him in high regard, appointing him first as his secretary and later as his General Vicar for the churches of Alexandria. Before long, Father Antonious was sent to serve in London, where he ministered for nearly 52 years, eventually becoming Vicar of the Diocese there.
He never hesitated in serving the Church, the Lord, and His people. He frequently traveled throughout Europe to visit members of the faithful, pray with them, and provide pastoral care before returning to London, the center of his ministry.
Archpriest Antonious withheld nothing from anyone. He gave his entire life and all his time to God. He became a guiding light to all who encountered him. Many learned from him what a genuine spiritual life looks like, what faithful service acceptable to God means, and how a person can truly dedicate his life to the Lord. He was a constant source of support and encouragement to those around him.
Words fall short of describing the life of this remarkable man. His life itself became a living history experienced by others. Most people live through history, but some shape history through their deeds and lives, just as Father Antonious did. He provided a living, practical example of righteousness, godliness, and the conduct expected of a true man of God.
As we commemorate his heavenly birth and the first anniversary of his departure on July 8, 2026, we remember his virtues, his works, and his love. We pray that the Lord may continue to benefit the Church through his prayers, grant him eternal rest in the Paradise of Joy, and bring comfort to his family, loved ones, and all those whom he served.
From the depths of our hearts, we ask God to preserve the peace of our country and protect it from every evil through the intercessions and prayers of our Holy Mother, the Virgin Mary; St. Mark the Evangelist, the pure apostle and martyr; the prayers of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, whom may God preserve; and his partner in the apostolic ministry, His Grace Bishop Angaelos, Bishop of London.
Anba Ermia
General Bishop
President of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center
العربية
