By Ashley M. Casey

Staff Writer

Now that it has settled into its home in the former Andrews Memorial Church, St. Mary and St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church is opening its doors to the community for “A Taste of Coptic Egypt in Syracuse.” The festival takes place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2, at the church, located at 106 Church St. in North Syracuse.

The festival will feature a tour of the church, authentic Egyptian cuisine and beverages, choir performances and informational videos about the Coptic Orthodox Church, which was founded about 1,900 years ago in Egypt.

“We’re calling this a mini festival,” said Father Kyrillos Sadek, priest of St. Mary and St. Mina. “We’re trying to give the community a taste of what we call Coptic Egypt.”

A Taste of Coptic Egypt will also feature Egyptian artifacts, children in pharaonic costumes, a kids’ corner and free blood pressure checks and healthy eating tips.

“We have a number of physicians in our church, so we’re offering a basic wellness check,” Father Kyrillos said.

Father Kyrillos said the congregation of St. Mary and St. Mina want to show their new neighbors their values and their heritage. Planning the festival has brought the church’s approximately 120 members closer.

“It’s always nice to have an event for the congregation to work toward,” Father Kyrillos said. “It gives a sense of unity and a common goal.”

To learn more about St. Mary and St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church, visit stmarystminacopticchurch.org or call 476-7303.