Pope of Alexandria and the Patriarch of Saint Mark Diocese Pope Tawadros II said that he prays for the victims of violence in Syria, Iraq and Palestine.
In statements Monday, the Pope said that he also prays for the release of kidnapped Egyptians in Libya for their release through negotiations.
The Pope cancelled a reception marking the Epiphany feast due to a health problem.
Security measures have been beefed up around the church to secure the festival.