Patriarch Nicholas I of Alexandria

Relations with the Church of Rome

Like his predecessor, Nicholas I maintained communion with the See of Rome. He ordained a Latin rite priest and at the invitation of Innocent III of Rome, sent representatives to participate in the Fourth Lateran Council (1215).

In 1218-1219, Crusaders captured Damietta as a base to invade and liberate the Christians of Egypt from the Ayyubid Muslims. After a crushing defeat in 1221, Crusaders surrendered Damietta and signed an 8 year truce. Native Egyptian Christians underwent renewed persecution and tortures by the Muslims in retaliation. Patriarch Nicholas died in deep poverty, 6 years before Crusaders returned to briefly retake Damietta.