The Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary: “The Cycle” tours villages with hymns and joy

With the arrival of August, celebrations begin for the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which take on a special character in the villages and cities of Upper Egypt, where popular traditions passed down through generations blend with a spiritual atmosphere. These celebrations are not limited to churches with their prayers and hymns, but extend to the streets and markets, with both Copts and Muslims participating.

From monasteries to villages

The celebrations of Blessed Virgin Mary in Egypt date back to ancient times, extending to the early centuries of Christianity. They are held in many places that the Holy Family honored by passing through or staying in during their journey from Egypt to Nazareth in Palestine.

These places are known as the route of the Holy Family. With their churches and monasteries, they attract thousands of Egyptian Copts, most notably the Monastery of Mount Tair in Minya and the Monastery of Durankah in Assiut.

The villages of Al-Salamia and Sharqi Bahgoura in Nag Hammadi, and the village of Al-Maharza in Abu Tesh in Qena, as well as the churches of Al-Malak and Mar Girgis in the village of Al-Sawaki in Luxor, and the Church of the Virgin Mary, witnessed large celebrations as the “Dawra” paraded through the streets of these villages.

The beloved ritual

The procession is a distinctive ritual. After mass, priests leave the churches wearing their embroidered vestments and carrying an icon of the Virgin Mary or a large cross decorated with flowers, accompanied by deacons carrying candles. Hymns dedicated to the Virgin Mary resound in the streets.

From Hijaza to Durankah

This year saw a large turnout for the “church procession.” Taxi stands were filled with citizens, and the streets of the villages participating in the celebrations were crowded. It was noticeable that most Coptic homes were decorated with large pictures of Blessed Virgin Mary, as well as banners congratulating the celebration. During the procession, residents distributed sweets, while vendors sold sweets, chickpeas, lupins, and cold drinks in an atmosphere of joy.

Afaf Lewis, chair of the Mercy Association, traveled a long way from her village of Hijaza in Qena to Durankah in the governorate of Assiut to participate in the celebrations of Blessed Virgin Mary during these blessed days.

Lewis told Bab Masr, “We celebrate the Virgin Mary’s ascension to heaven in body and soul. On this day, we distribute vows in thanksgiving to God. Regarding her own rituals, she explains, “For fifteen days, I eat only shalulu, following the example of Blessed Virgin Mary. Many accounts mention that she ate nothing but this food during her journey through the cities and villages of Egypt until she reached Assiut, and we fast in her honor.”

Regarding her visit to the monastery of Durankah, she adds: “I go to Durankah because it is a miraculous place, with ancient churches, including the church where the Virgin Mary stayed, which is located inside a cave at the foot of the mountain. We walk a long distance to reach it, regardless of the heat or hardship, to honor her memory.” She noted that the church provides free transportation to facilitate the movement of participants. Visitors also receive free food and drinks. “Fateer al-Malak,” a type of special bread made in the church, is distributed during Mass.

Al-Sawaki celebrations

Daoud Azir Hasaballah, from the village of Al-Sawaki in Luxor, says he has been participating in this event for more than 30 years at St. George’s Church in Luxor. The “procession” begins at the church and ends at Abu Al-Hajjaj Street and the station, with the participation of the choir and priests.

He continues: “As we pass through the gate of the Church of the Angel in Al-Sawagi, we roam the streets of the area with hymns, drums, and religious melodies. The children wear white costumes, and the locals distribute sweets, roses, and cakes. Muslims join us and share in our joy. Copts from Al-Maris, Al-Qurna, Qumula, Al-Adisat, Armant, and Hajar Armant in Luxor also participate in the celebration in the village of Al-Sawagi.

“Celebration at the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Al-Salamia

As for Uncle Yaqoub from the village of Al-Salamia, he says that during the days of the celebration, he welcomes many relatives from different governorates to his home. He points out that the village of Al-Salamia is home to one of the oldest churches in the governorate, which dates back more than 200 years and hosts the largest gathering after Durankah to celebrate this anniversary.

He adds that the church was originally built of mud bricks and palm trunks. It was renovated in 1982 and contains an ancient altar made of ivory dating back two centuries. Christian and Muslim residents offer sacrifices to feed visitors and participants in the celebration. The procession starts at the entrance to the village and ends at the church, a distance of about one kilometer. It takes place from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with a large crowd of locals and visitors in attendance.

The Blessed Virgin Mary remains an eternal symbol of love that never fades from the hearts of Egyptians, and her presence is deeply rooted in the memory and consciousness of generations.