Face of Truth: Philotheos.. An Icon of Tolerance and Loyalty
Ibrahim Shaqlawi
In the journey of the modern Sudanese state, few religious or political figures have emerged who transcended the boundaries of the ecclesiastical institution to become a unifying national conscience, as Father Philotheos Farag did, priest of the Martyrs’ Church in Khartoum, thinker, ambassador of peace, and former parliamentary representative. His presence in public affairs stemmed from a personal charisma that distinguished him among his peers alongside his religious position. He also represented a reflection of a deep understanding of the meaning of citizenship as a value that transcends sectarianism and penetrates the political and social spheres with a unifying spirit that brings all people together.
In 2016, during the administrative referendum on the political status in Darfur, I met Dr. Martha Joseph at a press conference. She is one of the activists in civil society organizations and vice president of the National Union of Sudanese Youth. She confirmed to me that Father Philotheos was among the most prominent supporters of the participation of Coptic youth in public life and monitoring the referendum through national organizations that participated under the flag of Sudan—not sect or religion, but for the stability of the country. He directed them to work in health, awareness, and social programs, then in field monitoring of the referendum, at a time when many hesitated to perform this sensitive national role.
The presence of Sudanese Copts in Darfur and other regions has lasted for more than seventy years, and it was a rooted and interactive presence with the local social fabric through trade and social relations. Father Philotheos embodied this lively interaction, as he represented in his life a model of openness between spiritual affiliation and active engagement in public affairs.
Father Philotheos Farag was born in 1944 and earned a PhD in philosophy from Cairo University, Khartoum branch. Among his most prominent works are: “The Safavid Collection” and “Personal Judiciary among the Copts.” He passed away on May 24, 2025, at the age of 81.
The state officially mourned his death, and most Sudanese parties participated in the condolences ceremonies, including the National Congress and the Popular Congress, affirming his role in supporting national cohesion and enhancing social solidarity. The Sovereignty Council mourned him as a man who served Sudan devotedly and left a legacy of giving, tolerance, and love, even describing him as a “symbol of coexistence.”
The history of Copts in Sudan is full of contributions in education, health, economy, and civil service, but what distinguished Father Philotheos was employing this heritage in building the present through empowering youth and serving community dialogue. He believed that peace is not merely a political agreement but a daily practice of accepting the other, a philosophy he applied practically through his activities inside Sudan and abroad.
In our current atmosphere charged with tensions, the importance of unifying national symbols emerges. These figures are not just respected personalities but play a pivotal role in preserving national identity and unifying vision. As the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau said: “The homeland is not only the land but also the shared will that unites us.”
In this sense, Father Philotheos embodied that Sudanese will that transcended religious and ethnic divides and made unity of destiny a motto and practice. He left behind a number of books and publications that enriched the Sudanese library.
Hence, the absence of such figures without reviving their legacy in the consciousness of generations foretells a great void. Nations are not built by systems and policies alone, but by symbols that grant politics its moral dimension and give the homeland its unifying meaning. This is what His Eminence the Father did; he planted in people’s awareness the idea of a shared homeland, a reality that must be protected and worked for.
In this context, it is essential for today’s youth generation to draw inspiration from these models that combined faith and national work, doctrine and justice, particularity and openness. The homeland needs people like them: those who listen well, unite rather than divide, and build bridges rather than barriers.
Therefore, as we see in #Face_of_Truth, despite the departure of Father Philotheos, his voice remains present in the memory of place, geography, and history. With respect, appreciation, and loyalty. There is no peace without justice, and no homeland without unifying symbols. Philotheos has departed, but his spirit will remain a beacon guiding generations toward national unity and social awareness of the importance of peaceful coexistence.
May he rest in mercy. May God bless his steps and reward him for what he offered, and condolences to his family and loved ones, and may He inspire our homeland patience and following in his footsteps.
Wishing you well and health.
Monday, May 26, 2025
Shglawi55@gmail.com