Anba Maximous General Bishop of Salam City, Cairo

I want to share a deeply moving experience closely related to the story of Anba Maximous and the true visit of Christ on Easter night. This story beautifully illustrates how sometimes divine presence comes in the form of the needy and humble around us. One Easter night, much like the tale shared by the bishop, a man in simple, worn clothes appeared unexpectedly at a church event in Salam City. At first, people were unsure of who he was or why he was there. But the way he humbly requested to pray alongside the clergy touched many hearts. There was an undeniable light and grace that seemed to surround him, reminding me of the story where Christ refuses to come in a grand, recognizable form but instead appears as a vulnerable person in need. This experience made me reflect on how often we overlook the urgent need to see Christ in the faces of the poor, the sick, and the lonely. The man’s presence amongst those preparing for the Easter Eucharist reminded me of the true essence of the holiday — resurrection, hope, and unconditional love. I also recall how the church community, despite initial confusion, welcomed him, offering food and care even after the service had ended. This hospitality, a living expression of faith and compassion, mirrors the powerful message Anba Maximous conveys: the extended hand of those in need is an opportunity to serve Christ himself. Living in Salam City, I’ve come to appreciate the role that leaders like Anba Maximous hold in guiding the faithful to recognize these sacred moments in everyday life. Easter is not only a celebration of resurrection but also a powerful call to action— to open our hearts and homes especially to those who often go unnoticed. If you find yourself wondering how to celebrate Easter in a way that truly honors its message, consider volunteering or offering help to the less fortunate in your community. You might be surprised to find that in serving others, you are serving Christ in a very real and profound way. This personal reflection strengthens the original story and emphasizes how faith can inspire real change through acts of kindness and recognition of the divine within us all.