# Coptic Orthodox Church celebrates 17th centenary of the discovery of the Wood of the Holy Cross

The event was held at St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Abbassia, the church said.

By the Church Desk of Coptic News.

- Published: 13 October 2026, 12:24 New York time (2026-10-13T16:24:23+00:00)

The Coptic Orthodox Church said on 27 September 2026 that it celebrated the 17th centenary of Queen Helena's discovery of the Wood of the Holy Cross. The celebration took place at St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Abbassia in conjunction with the Feast of the Cross. Pope Tawadros II signaled the start of the event by carrying a relic of the Wood of the Holy Cross, the church said.

Metropolitan Youannes, Metropolitan of Assiut and Secretary of the Holy Synod, gave an address emphasizing the importance of keeping the Cross at the center of Christian life, according to the church. The program included a poem by cantor Ibrahim Farag of Queen Helena Church in Maadi and a theatrical performance titled “They Were in Need.” Pope Tawadros II concluded the celebration by commending the theatrical performance and expressing appreciation to Metropolitan Youannes and the cantor, the church said.

## Sources

1. [Celebration Marking 17 Centuries Since the Discovery of the Wood of the Holy Cross Attending by H.H. Pope Tawadros II and Members of the Holy Synod](<https://copticorthodox.church/en/2026/09/27/celebration-marking-17-centuries-since-the-discovery-of-the-wood-of-the-holy-cross-attending-by-h-h-pope-tawadros-ii-and-members-of-the-holy-synod/>), Coptic Orthodox Church. Published 2026-09-27. Accessed 2026-10-13.

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