The Coptic Orthodox has begun sending Christmas mass invitations, personally signed by Pope Shenouda III.

Pope Shenouda announced that he will soon return to Ohio for a doctor-recommended health checkup. He is expected to return to preside over the Christmas mass and give his usual sermon.

Church sources revealed to al-Wafd that the Pope's absence from his usual sermon in Alexandria is either because of the rising protest against him or because he was attending opening ceremonies for the National Democratic Party.