Kuwait City marked a significant milestone for its Coptic Orthodox community as St. Mark the Apostle Cathedral in Hawally celebrated the 25th anniversary of Hegumen Bigoul Anba Bishoy’s pastoral service on October 3. The event, held in a solemn yet warm atmosphere, drew clergy, congregants, and diplomatic representatives in recognition of Bigoul’s enduring contributions to the church and the wider community in Kuwait.
The commemorative gathering was attended by His Eminence Anba Antonios, Coptic Orthodox Metropolitan of Jerusalem, Kuwait, and the Near East, alongside several priests, church servers, and members of the faithful. Upon arrival, Bigoul was honored by a scout band presentation, highlighting the congregation’s deep appreciation for his long tenure.
Clergy speakers paid tribute to Bigoul’s dedication and character. Father Markos Al-Antony described the occasion as “a real revolution of love,” emphasizing Bigoul’s place in the hearts of those he serves. Reverend Emmanuel Gharib, chairman of the National Evangelical Church of Kuwait, praised Bigoul’s humility, optimism, and unwavering commitment to pastoral duties even under challenging circumstances.
In his keynote address, Anba Antonios expressed heartfelt admiration for Bigoul’s quarter-century of work in Kuwait, reflecting on the extensive scope of his ministry. He noted Bigoul’s involvement beyond liturgical functions, including training church personnel, developing educational curricula, and supporting university communities across several countries, including Kuwait, Egypt, Russia, Ukraine, and England. Anba Antonios also highlighted the baptism of 22 children on the day of the celebration alone.
The metropolitan underscored the mutual respect Bigoul has garnered within both the church and broader Kuwaiti society, attributing it to what he described as a divine gift and personal charisma. He looked forward to Bigoul’s continued service in the coming decades, expressing hope for the enduring spiritual legacy he has fostered.
Since arriving in Kuwait 25 years ago, Bigoul has established himself as more than a religious leader; he is seen as a familial figure and friend within the community. His ministry emphasizes integration and bridge-building, reflecting a respect for Kuwait’s distinct identity and fostering connections between the church and the wider society.
Under Bigoul’s stewardship, St. Mark’s Cathedral has evolved into a hub for Egyptian expatriates and diverse groups in Kuwait, inviting engagement from local society and leadership during major religious events such as Christmas and Easter. The cathedral frequently hosts floral tributes bearing names of prominent leaders and public figures, symbolizing its role as a community focal point.
The anniversary also recalled a landmark event in the church’s history: the visit of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, to Kuwait in April 2017. This was the first papal visit since His Holiness’s enthronement, during which he consecrated the new St. Mark’s Cathedral. Bigoul played a central role as general coordinator of the visit, which included meetings with Kuwaiti political leaders and cultural engagements such as a tour of the Kuwait Opera House.
In his acceptance speech, Bigoul expressed humility, acknowledging the extensive efforts behind the celebration and thanking those who contributed to the occasion. The ceremony concluded with Bishop Antonios presenting Bigoul a commemorative plaque, amid applause and emotional recognition from the audience, affirming the profound bond between the pastor and the community he has served for a quarter-century.