Coptic Easter Sunday in Egypt

Coptic Easter Sunday is one of the most significant religious holidays in the Coptic Orthodox Church, which follows the Julian calendar. This means it often falls on a different date than Easter as observed by Western Christian churches, which follow the Gregorian calendar.

History and Significance:

The origins of Coptic Easter trace back to the early Christian traditions, with Egyptians who have been observing it for centuries. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, an event that is central to Christian faith. The Coptic Church, with its deep historical roots in Egypt since Saint Mark brought Christianity to Egypt in the first century AD, has preserved its unique liturgy and traditions over time.

Traditions:

Leading up to Easter Sunday, Copts observe a 55-day fast known as "The Great Lent," where no animal products are consumed. The Holy Week preceding Easter is marked by daily church services and prayers.

On Holy Saturday (the day before Easter Sunday), a late-night service called The Great Vigil is held. It culminates with a joyful announcement of Christ's resurrection exactly at midnight.

Activities on Easter Sunday:

• Family Gatherings: After attending church services that can last into the early hours of Sunday morning, people spend time with family and friends.
• Sharing Festive Meals: Celebratory meals often include dishes such as "Fatta" (a dish made with rice, bread, vinegar, and meat), boiled eggs symbolizing new life, and other delicacies that were abstained from during Lent.
• Exchanging Greetings: It's common for people to greet each other with phrases like "Christ has risen" and respond with "Truly He has risen."
• Visiting Graves: Many visit the graves of loved ones to clean them and place flowers. This practice is known as "Sham El-Nessim" and coincides with an ancient spring festival.
• Public Holiday: While not all Egyptians are Coptic Christians, the day is recognized as a public holiday across Egypt.

Easter Sunday is both a solemn religious occasion and a time for joyous celebration among Egypt's Copts, reflecting their faith's triumph over death through Christ's resurrection.