Pope Shenouda III Death Prompts Mourning in the Egyptian Coptic Community

At 89, Coptic Pope Shenouda III passed away after battling several serious illnesses. His death has caused a wave of grief across Egypt and the Middle East among both Christians and Muslims.

"According to the laws and rulers of the Egyptian Church the body of late Pope will remain for three days on the papal chair in the cathedral where the prayers will be held during that time. The Church is expected to hold his funeral next Tuesday."

"With Lent halfway through, one of the Christian sects that observe this time of year the most has lost its leader and mentor. The Copts have lost Pope Shenouda today, at an age of 89."

"Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria -- born Nazeer Gayed on August 3, 1923 in Asyut, Upper Egypt -- is the 117th Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of All Africa on the Holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark the Evangelist of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. He is the head of The Holy Synod of the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria."