The Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Church condemned on Wednesday the violation of civil laws by some alleged monks in rejection of the establishment of a new road near the Monastery of Saint Macarius in Wadi al Rayan, Fayyoum.

In a statement Wednesday, the synod said the monastery is not recognized by the church, adding that wearing black garments does not mean that those are monks because becoming a monk requires a church permit.

The statement added that even if their IDs say they are monks, this does not mean the church recognized them as such.

The statement added that any letters having Pope Tawadros II signature were meant to deal with governmental authorities in preparation for recognizing this place as a church entity.

The crisis erupted in October 2015. Pope Tawadros II and the synod's committee of priests and monasteries tried to settle the crisis and convince Wadi Rayan people to give up their intransigence and avoid hampering development projects; namely building the new road.

Unfortunately, all efforts were doomed to failure, despite offering several good proposals to end the crisis, the statement added.

The statement said that police forces arrested several Wadi Rayan people over breaking the law.

The statement called on media to be accurate and in all conscience, adding that the church has its old and modern historical traditions and pastoral laws.

The statement said this is the first time in the church's history to face such hullabaloo which is not commensurate with the spiritual and pastoral Coptic life. 

Source : MENA