It with great sadness that we received the news of the death of Bishop Hassan Dehqani-Tafti, the former Bishop of Iran and former President Bishop our Province. On behalf of my brother Bishops, Clergy and Congregations in the Province I give my heartfelt condolences to his widow, Margaret, his daughter, Guli, family and his many close friends. I pray that the Lord will give them peace and comfort.
We give thanks for the life of Bishop Hassan, which remains as an example to us all. The way he forgave those who broke his heart continues as an unforgettable lesson throughout the Anglican Communion. He and his family suffered a lot for Christ’s sake, but this never reduced his zeal to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. I have had the privilege of knowing Bishop Hassan when he was the President Bishop, as well as after his retirement. His leadership was deeply appreciated, and I personally treasure his encouragement and advice.
For many years he and his church paid a high price for remaining faithful to Christ. With confidence I can say that Bishop Hassan can be likened to the Apostle Peter as “a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s suffering, and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed.”
+Mouneer
Most Revd Dr. Mouneer Anis
Bishop of the Episcopal/Anglican Diocese of Egypt