Egyptian Copts set to begin Christmas fast

CAIRO: Egyptian Copts will begin their 43-day Christmas fast on Nov. 25, with its conclusion on Jan. 7, the night of festive celebration. Egyptian churches have different dates for the start of the fast. The Coptic Orthodox Church begins on Nov. 25, while the Catholic Church fasts for 15 days from Dec. 9. The Coptic period is in line with the 40-day fasting of Prophet Moses. The three additional days were added after Abraam Ebn-Zaraa the Syrian, who is considered a saint by the Coptic Orthodox Church, fasted them.