Coptic Church to Begin 43-Day Christmas Fast on November 25

The Coptic Orthodox Church is preparing to begin the “Merry Christmas Stone” on November 25. The source describes it as one of the most important spiritual observances in the church calendar. It lasts 43 continuous days and ends with the celebration of Christmas, when prayers and divine services are held in all churches and parishes.

According to the report, the Christmas fast in Coptic teaching is not limited to abstaining from animal foods and eating only plants and fish. It is described as a period of spiritual preparation and cleansing of the heart to receive the event of the divine nativity. The source notes a church saying that calls these days “Soft Days Roads to Heaven,” and describes fasting as a practice that brings together prayer, charity and self-discipline, a pairing that reflects caring for those in need (Isaiah 58:7).

The report says that in the teachings and church messages for this occasion, the Coptic pope, identified in the source as Tuavers II, describes fasting as a “school of love,” in which people learn how to approach God, themselves and others. The source states that the fast days are marked by spiritual renewal, praises and prayer evenings held in all churches.

The source also says the season extends the church’s spiritual atmosphere through the end of November. It presents the period as an annual call to all believers to examine themselves and cleanse their hearts, so that the days of faith can become an opportunity for tolerance, loving fellowship and good works.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)