Coptic Good Friday in Egypt

Coptic Good Friday, known as "Great Friday" in the Coptic Church, is a significant day within Holy Week for Egyptian Christians, particularly those belonging to the Coptic Orthodox Church. The day commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary and precedes Easter Sunday, which celebrates his resurrection.

History and Traditions:

• Historical Roots: The observance of Good Friday has roots in early Christianity, with the Copts in Egypt tracing their religious heritage back to Saint Mark the Evangelist in the 1st century AD.

• Fasting: Copts observe a strict fast on Good Friday. They abstain from all meat, fish, dairy products, and oil. The fast begins on Holy Thursday evening and continues until Easter Sunday.

• Church Services: The day is marked by prolonged church services that usually begin in the morning and continue into the afternoon. These services include reading of scriptures, prayers, and hymns that reflect on Jesus' passion and crucifixion.

• Somberness: The mood during these services is somber and contemplative. Churches are often adorned with black cloth, and icons may be covered as a sign of mourning.

What People Do:

• Attendance at Church Services: Many Copts spend most of Good Friday attending church services. It's a day dedicated to prayer, reflection on spiritual life, and participation in liturgical rites.

• Adoration of the Cross: A key ritual on this day involves the adoration of the cross as a symbol of Christ's sacrifice for humanity's salvation.

• Reading of Passion Narratives: Recitations or readings from Gospel accounts detailing Christ’s suffering are integral to the liturgy.

Good Friday holds profound significance for Egypt's Copts as they join fellow Christians worldwide in commemorating this pivotal event within Christian tradition.