Churches across the New Valley Governorate are seeing a significant increase in security measures ahead of the Christmas Eve Mass scheduled for Tuesday.
Coptic Christians from all five administrative centers of the governorate are expected to attend the services.
Extensive security protocols have been implemented throughout the streets and public squares.
Security patrols and stationary checkpoints have been reinforced in the areas surrounding churches, establishing a security cordon to ensure public safety.
Electronic gates and metal detectors have also been installed at the entrances of all churches belonging to the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of New Valley.
In particular, security tightly focused at the streets leading to the Virgin Mary Church in Kharga—the seat of the New Valley Bishopric—due to the high volume of worshippers expected during major religious holidays.
These measures aim to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for the celebrations.
The Bishop of the New Valley and the Oases, Anba Arsenios, will preside over the Christmas Eve Mass on Tuesday evening, joined by priests and deacons.
Simultaneously, Christmas services will be held at St. George Church in Dakhla and various churches in the Farafra Oasis, with the participation of local congregations.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
