A million pilgrims at the Marian Monastery-Shrine of Jabal al Tayr celebrate Mary’s birth

More than one million Egyptian pilgrims, both Coptic Christians as well as Muslims, gathered at the Marian Monastery -Shrine of Jabal al Tayr in the Egyptian province of Minya this year, during the days when the Coptic Church celebrates Mary’s birth.

The areas surrounding the Shrine were crowded with stalls selling various expressions of devotion to the Virgin Mary, despite being heavily conditioned by the health measures put in place to combat the pandemic from Covid-19 for years. National and local authorities ensured smooth operation of the celebrations. [...]

The annual celebrations at the Shrine to Mary’s birth last for one week and begin at May’s end. The Marian shrine is also one of the major stations on the “Way of the Holy Family”, which connects the places where Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus traveled during their escape from Herod. The Church of the Virgin Mary, Jabal al-Tayr (“Hill of the Birds”) was built at Queen Helena’s request in 328 AD. It is one of the most visited shrines in the world.

The original place for worship, carved in the rock, hosts liturgical celebrations just three times per year, on the occasion three solemnities from the Coptic liturgical Calendar.

According to tradition, the Holy Family crossed over the Nile to the east after arriving in Samalut. This is right where the Monastery is located. The Holy Family then settled in the cave which is now part of the ancient church. The hill that houses the monastery is also known as “Palm Hill” due to the fact that a large piece of rock fell from the hill and threatened to sweep the family away. Local tradition says that the incident occurred when baby Jesus was standing on the hill with Mary & Joseph. Jesus is said to have reached out his hand and stopped the rolling rock. His palm imprinted itself on the rock.

Jabal al Tayr Monastery is a place where one can year-round venerate the Mother of Jesus. This devotion is also popular among Muslims who make pilgrimages to the shrine in order to pray and seek graces.

Fides Agency, 5/31/2022 (Adapted)

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