Le Lézard
Subjects: REL, CFG

Statement by Minister Rodriguez on Nayrouz


Today, Coptic Christians in Canada and around the world celebrate the feast of Nayrouz and the Coptic New Year

OTTAWA, Sept. 11, 2018 /CNW/ - Today, we join Coptic Orthodox Christians in Canada, in Egypt and around the world in celebrating the holiday of Nayrouz.

Every year, according to the Coptic Orthodox calendar, September 11 marks the first day of the Coptic New Year. This is a time of great celebration, during which families and friends gather to feast, pray and exchange gifts. It is also an opportunity to honour the memory of those who sacrificed everything and were oppressed for their religious beliefs over the centuries, including during the years of intense persecution carried out under Roman rule in Egypt. Nayrouz also marks the beginning of Thout, the first month of the Coptic year.

Nayrouz is a time for Canadians of all backgrounds to learn more about this holiday and the contribution of Coptic Christians to various spheres of our society. This year, as we mark the 30th anniversary of the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, let us cherish our diversity, our openness and our differences. They unite us, and are our country's strength and pride.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, I wish everyone celebrating Nayrouz a very happy holiday and a New Year filled with hope and renewal.

 

SOURCE Canadian Heritage



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