Churches all throughout Egypt, representing various denominations (Orthodox, Evangelical, Catholic, and Anglican), are preparing to welcome the New Year this evening with prayers, spiritual vigils, and festive rituals.
These celebrations will include hymns and Christmas carols, reflecting the spirituality of the occasion and joy at the end of one year and the beginning of another.
Festive joy
The churches are adorned inside with Christmas trees, Santa Claus figures, angels, and flowers in vibrant shades of green, red, and white—the colors characteristic of New Year’s celebrations.
Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, will preside over the New Year’s service at the Great St. Mark’s Cathedral in Alexandria, a visit he makes annually to share this religious occasion with the city’s residents.
The evening prayer includes Kiahk hymns and praises to the Virgin Mary, according to the established church ritual.
The dioceses of the Coptic Orthodox Church in the governorates and other denominations will at the same time see similar celebrations in the presence of the Metropolitans and Bishops, amidst hymns and church chants, in addition to artistic and service performances.
Ministry of Health announces readiness
The Ministry of Health and Population announced a comprehensive medical insurance plan that includes prevention, emergency services and critical care, with raising the readiness of public and central hospitals, distributing treatment shortages to mobile clinics near churches and public parks.
The ministry also announced the deployment of 221 ambulances and 11 river and sea launches, in addition to activating central crisis management rooms around the clock, to ensure the provision of emergency medical services and monitoring the epidemiological situation.
