Feasts, Fasts & Gatherings
Upcoming feasts, holy fasting periods, liturgies, and community events following the Coptic Orthodox calendar.
About Coptic Fasting: The Coptic Church fasts approximately 210 days per year. During fasting periods, the faithful abstain from all animal products (meat, poultry, dairy, eggs, and often fish) and are encouraged to attend the Divine Liturgy.
02
FEB
Fast of Nineveh (Jonah's Fast)
A three-day fast commemorating the repentance of the people of Nineveh. The faithful abstain from all animal products and are encouraged to attend daily liturgies during this period.
18
APR
Feast of the Glorious Resurrection (Coptic Easter)
The greatest feast of the Coptic year! We celebrate the Glorious Resurrection with Tasbeha (Midnight Praises) beginning at 11:00 PM on the night of Joyous Saturday, followed by the Resurrection Liturgy. Christos Anesti — Christ is Risen!
07
AUG
Fast of the Virgin St Mary
A 15-day fasting period in honour of the Virgin St Mary, the Theotokos (God-bearer). The faithful fast from all animal products and gather for daily liturgies leading up to the great feast of her Assumption.
07
JAN
Feast of the Nativity (Coptic Christmas)
We celebrate the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to the Coptic Orthodox calendar. The feast begins with Tasbeha (Midnight Praises) the evening before, followed by the Divine Liturgy.
19
JAN
Feast of Theophany (Epiphany)
Commemorating the Baptism of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. The feast is celebrated with the Divine Liturgy and the blessing of water, following the ancient Coptic tradition.
09
MAR
Feast of Pope Kyrillos VI (Our Patron Saint)
We commemorate our beloved patron saint, St Pope Kyrillos VI, on the anniversary of his blessed departure. A special Divine Liturgy is celebrated, followed by a programme about his life and miracles.
16
MAR
Beginning of Great Lent (Holy 40 Days)
The Great Lent is the holiest fasting period in the Coptic year — 55 days of fasting leading up to the Feast of the Resurrection. The faithful abstain from all animal products and intensify their prayers, confessions, and attendance at the Divine Liturgy.
05
APR
Palm Sunday Divine Liturgy
A joyful celebration of Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The faithful carry palm branches in a procession around the church, as has been done since ancient times.
06
APR
Holy Week (Pascha) — Nightly Liturgies
The most solemn week of the Coptic year. Each evening features Pascha readings and liturgies commemorating specific events in the Passion of Our Lord, including the Covenant Thursday Liturgy and the Good Friday service.
09
APR
Covenant Thursday (Last Supper Liturgy)
Commemorating the Last Supper and the institution of the Holy Eucharist. The Covenant Thursday liturgy includes the washing of feet and is one of the most profound services of the entire year.
10
APR
Good Friday
The day Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross.
11
APR
Easter Eve (Coptic)
Easter Mass
22
AUG
Feast of the Assumption of St Mary (Our Patron Saint)
We celebrate the great feast of the Assumption of the Virgin St Mary — one of the most beloved and joyful feasts in the Coptic year. As our patron, this feast holds a very special place in our congregation.