In 1993, the Thrice-Blessed and Thrice-Reposed Abba Mina the Bishop, first abbot of St. Mina's monastery in the wilderness of Mariout, and disciple of Pope Kyrillos VI of blessed memory, visited St. Mark's Church in Boston along with Tamav Irene of blessed memory, Abbess of the St. Philopateer Mercurius Coptic Orthodox Convent in Old Cairo. Both were influential figures and role models in the Coptic Orthodox Church, and had a significant impact on Abouna Moussa El Gohary.
Abba Mina was known for his ascetic lifestyle, deep spirituality, and dedication to monastic life. Tamav Irene, consecrated as the head of her convent on October 15, 1962, was renowned for her spiritual depth and is now venerated as a saint.
The recording captures the vespers of St. Mercurius (known in Arabic as Abu Seifein) and the liturgy the following day. This visit would have been particularly meaningful, as Tamav Irene was instrumental in popularizing the veneration of St. Mercurius among Coptic Christians.
This event, which took place over three decades ago, remains a cherished memory in the history of St. Mark's Church in Boston.