Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Aswan Statement [October 15, 2011]
A number of visual and written media recently covered the issue of Saint George's Church in Marīnāb of Idfū city in Aswan governorate inaccurately and gave wrong information, which resulted in the confusion in the opinions and emotions of the public.

The truth is clear and we want to announce it to everyone:
Marīnāb village has a church called Saint George in which people have prayed in for more than 40 years. The village is home to more than 200 Christians. Priests had done masses in it and I, myself [Bishop Hidrā of Aswan], have prayed there more than once without any disturbance from Muslims.

In September, 2011, the Church was demolished, and three Christian houses were burned which disturbed this good relations. It was painful not only in Aswan, but all over Egypt. 

[Reviewer's Note: al-Ahrām had published this statement on page 3 of October 17, 2011 issue as a paid ad and signed by Bishop Hidrā of Aswan.]

A previous statement was issued by Bishop Hidrā on the diocese's Web site on October 12, 2011.