Experiences from Mount Sinai

On the evening of Tuesday the 24th of June, the St George Bible Study group was blessed to be joined by Youssef Attallah for a talk on Mt Sinai, the God-trodden mountain. It was an engaging and enlightening discussion for all who attended, with Youssef leaning on his personal experience being born and raised in Egypt. 

Youssef commenced his talk by taking us on a journey to understand the importance of Sinai, as the place where God appeared to Moses in the burning bush and then later where the ten Commandments were given by God to Moses.

He then explored how monasticism started there in the 3rd century, and discussed the significance of the site of the burning bush for early monastics. In fact, St Helen built a Chapel at the site in the 4th Century and later Emperor Justinian constructed a great basilica there during his 6th century reign. 

Youssef then delved into St Catherine’s monastery in particular, being the oldest inhabited Christian monastery. Interestingly, it was originally named the monastery of the Burning Bush. It was renamed to St Catherine’s following the miraculous appearance of her relics on Mt Sinai. 

Youssef also provided a fascinating insight into the St George monastery in Raitho. We were given a historical summary on both this unique Egyptian monastery’s establishment and its founder – who remained unknown for many years before visions and miracles revealed his identity. Youssef also provided his own insights and personal experiences visiting this monastery, named after St George alike our Cathedral; an aspect appreciated by all in attendance.

A big thank you to Youssef for sharing your insights and experience. God willing we will be able to visit this sacred site one day.