The Egyptian Coptic Christian community concluded the Virgin’s Fast Monday, which began August 7, said Mohsen George, member of the Melli Council of the Saint Mark Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Alexandria.
He explained that the churches are holding a mass for the feast day of the Assumption of Mary Monday evening, to be presided over by the pastor of the Church. The Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate will hold the feast prayers in the presence of hundreds of Coptic churchgoers.
George said that the members will pray to God for Egypt’s security and stability.
Egyptian Coptic Orthodox Christians started celebrating the Virgin’s Fast earlier this month amid tightened security measures, as churches across the country received thousands of visitors.
Egypt’s Coptic Church celebrates the Fast of the Assumption of the Virgin Saint Mary annually in August, and perform prayers of intercession to the Virgin Mary.
The late Pope Shenouda III said the fast is important in the hearts of worshipers and is practiced with strict self-discipline. The Church prepares a spiritual program that includes daily sermons, prayers and liturgies for the Virgin.
Edited Translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
