In Egypt, Christmas celebrations are officially sanctioned by Islamic clerics for people of all faiths, despite objections from some conservative Muslims. On Friday, January 7, the holiday season concluded with Coptic Christmas, observed by the vast majority of Christians in Egypt. For VOA, Hamada Elrasam has this photo essay, with words by Elle Kurancid.
In Photos: Egyptians Celebrate Coptic Christmas
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Newlyweds Amr and Nariman dance at their wedding in Alexandria, Dec. 25, 2021. "The birth of Jesus is now the birth of our new life together," Amr tells VOA, referring to the Muslim couple's decision to marry on Christmas Day. (H. Elrasam/VOA)
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The Vatican ambassador to Egypt raises a statute of baby Jesus during Christmas Eve Mass for Roman Catholics in Cairo, Dec 24, 2021. Most Egyptian Christians are Coptic, who celebrate Christmas on January 7. (H. Elrasam/VOA)
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Each year, Amal Djibi, center, and loved ones celebrate her birthday with a Christmas-inspired dinner and gift exchange at their home in Cairo, Dec. 29, 2021. (H. Elrasam/VOA)
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Mostafa and his pet monkey Fattouta promote a Christmas-themed party in his downtown Cairo cafe, Dec. 31, 2021. "I'm a Muslim, just like most of our customers tonight," he tells VOA, "and we're all celebrating the holidays." (H. Elrasam/VOA)