The Holy Nativity Fast is a 43-day period of prayer, fasting, and spiritual preparation in the Coptic Orthodox Church as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word.

The fast consists of 40 days commemorating Moses’ preparation to receive the Word of God through the Ten Commandments, along with three days commemorating the miraculous moving of Mount Mokattam in Egypt. Likewise, we fast to prepare our hearts to receive Christ, the Word of God.

Throughout the month of Kiahk, the Church celebrates special hymns, praises, and liturgical services centered on the Virgin Birth and the joy of salvation.

The fast concludes with the Nativity Divine Liturgy on the evening of January 6, followed by the joyous Feast of the Nativity on January 7.

May this holy season inspire us to grow in prayer, repentance, and love, sharing the hope and joy of Christ's birth with those around us.