Coptic leader looks to avoid clashes with Muslims in Cairo

November 25, 2008

Seeking to avoid bloodshed, Pope Shenouda III, the head of the Coptic Church, has ordered his followers to cease using a building in Cairo as a prayer hall, after angry Muslims in the neighborhood staged violent protests at the building. The Coptic Church, which has frequently been targeted by militant Muslims, has complained of unequal protection in Egypt, where Christians-- mostly Copts-- account for about 6% of the population.

 

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Further information:

• Coptic pope bars prayers in Cairo hall after clashes (AP)