Coptic churches in Alexandria have started preparing for Holy Sunday by raising black curtains and flags for a week of sorrow in commemoration of the crucifixion of Christ, said member of the Coptic Orthodox Lay Council of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Alexandria, Mohsen George.
George told Al-Masry Al-Youm Monday that all churches will hang black curtains and flags until Good Friday. Starting Saturday, the black will be replaced with white for the next 50 days, in celebration of the resurrection of Christ.
Churches started performing the Holy Pascha prayers Monday and will continue to perform the same ritual morning and night until Wednesday, he added.
Churches will receive well-wishers for Easter Saturday evening and the Feast Mass will be performed Saturday evening, according to George.
Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria will receive well-wishers on Sunday morning at the papal residence.
George praised the efforts made by security in Alexandria to secure churches during the Holy Week.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
