Time for celebration

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LAST week, Copts celebrated the Feast of the Assumption, commemorating the ascension of the Virgin Mary to heaven. Between 7 and 22 August, millions of Egyptians, Copts and Muslims, paid their respects at Al-Drunka Monastery. Masses and other services are held from dawn to dawn on 22 August when a period of two-weeks fasting comes to an end.

The moulid of the Virgin -- marking her rebirth in heavenly form -- can be traced to celebrations, attached to holy figures, that has its origins in Pharaonic times. These commemorations of saints and prophets become the occasion for many forms of popular cultural entertainment, including children's games and puppet shows, while food and beverage vendors congregate to attend to the more quotidian needs of the devotees.