Orthodox churches around the country carried out funeral masses for the ‘Umrāniyyah church riot victims yesterday. Priests called upon Copts to go out and vote for whichever political party they choose. Meanwhile, Coptic activists handed out flyers urging Copts to vote against the ruling National Democratic Party for its “crimes” against Copts. An unnamed source confirms that Pope Shenouda III met with Bishop Theodosius of Giza today to discuss issuing a “calming statement” on the incident. The source says the Pope is completely opposed to the idea of a Coptic apology for an incident in which two Copts were killed and 157 imprisoned. Hānī ‘Azīz told al-Misrī al-Yawm that Bishop Theodosius’ meeting with the Governor of Giza yesterday was one of love and friendship. Activist Najīb Jabrā’īl issued a statement condemning Bishop Theodosius’ apology to the governor, calling it “insulting.”

Key Words: ‘Umrāniyyah - Bishop Theodosius - Pope Shenouda III – Hānī ‘Azīz – Father Mīnā Zarīf – Najīb Jabrā’īl