The Virgin of Egypt – Father François Brune

Publication date: October 2004
Editor: Jardin Des Livres
EAN: 9782914569330
ISBN: 2914569335

François Brune, born on August 18, 1931, in Vernon (Eure), and died on January 16, 2019, was a former French Catholic priest who converted to Orthodoxy at the end of his life.
He was the author of numerous works on theology, spirituality, life after death, and the paranormal, in connection with the Catholic faith.”

Detailed Summary of “The Virgin of Egypt” by Father François Brune

“The Virgin of Egypt” by Father François Brune provides an in-depth exploration of Marian apparitions in Egypt, with a particular focus on those of Zeitoun. Here is a detailed summary:

1- Historical and Cultural Context:

  • The book begins with a description of the historical importance of Egypt in Christianity, particularly as a refuge for the Holy Family.
  • The author explores the role of Marian apparitions in strengthening Christian faith in Egypt over the centuries, including presentations of other Marian apparitions in Egypt such as those in Shoubra, Assiut, and Edfou, which took place after the Zeitoun apparitions.
  • He situates the Zeitoun apparitions in the context of the Cold War and the war with Israel, noting the significance of the word Zeitoun, which in Arabic means “olives,” and that the olive tree is a symbol of peace.

2- Apparitions of Zeitoun:

  • The Zeitoun apparitions began on April 2, 1968, on the domes of the Coptic Church of St. Mary. They lasted for about three years, with thousands of people confirming to have seen the Virgin Mary in luminous form. The author describes them as “a unique mass phenomenon in history.“
  • The apparitions were often accompanied by phenomena such as luminous doves, clouds of light, and scents of incense.
  • The book details various aspects of the apparitions of the Virgin of Zeitoun, called “Mother of Light” (Om-el-Nour): the timing of the apparitions, the different forms and sizes of the Virgin’s appearance, her movements, how she faded, disappeared, and reappeared.

3- Reactions and Testimonials:

  • The testimonials include accounts from Muslims, Christians, and non-believers, all describing similar experiences of seeing a luminous figure.
  • The apparitions garnered international media attention, with reports and photographs being circulated worldwide, including in French media, though the coverage remained relatively minimal for such an important event.

4- Investigations and Verifications:

  • The book details the investigations conducted by the Coptic Orthodox Church and Egyptian authorities, who concluded that the apparitions were authentic.
  • Investigations were also conducted by doctors and professors to verify the authenticity of the many miraculous healings reported.
  • The author cites statements from leaders of other religious communities in Egypt, such as Cardinal Stephanos I Sidarous, Patriarch of the Catholic Copts, and Reverend Ibrahim Said, spokesperson for all Protestant Churches in Egypt.
  • He also notes the absence of scientific or natural explanations for the observed phenomena.

 

5- Spiritual and Social Impact:

  • Father François Brune discusses the impact of the apparitions on individual faith, including conversions and miraculous healings. “The tree is judged by its fruit. And there were numerous conversions, and everywhere faith was strengthened. These apparitions could only come from God.”
  • The apparitions strengthened interreligious relations in Egypt, creating a sense of unity among different religious communities.

6- Theological Reflections:

  • The author offers reflections on the theological significance of Marian apparitions and their role in Christian faith.
  • He examines how these apparitions can be seen as divine messages for humanity.