As in other Orthodox Christian traditions in Russia, Serbia, and Ethiopia, Egyptian Coptic Christians have been celebrating the Christmas season with a month-long fast - a vegan type diet for 43 days leading up to the Christmas Day holiday January 7. At the culmination of the season Tuesday, Coptic Christian families in Cairo gathered to worship and sing, dressed in their best, to break the fast together and celebrate.
Egypt's Coptic Christians Celebrate Christmas
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Coptic priests sing in praise as they consecrate bread during Christmas Mass. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Some 21st century pastimes clash with ancient traditions as young worshipers play a video game during Christmas Mass. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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Toward the end of the Mass, Coptic believers line up to receive communion. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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After Christmas Mass, young Coptic Christians gather with family and friends to relax and have fun. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)