Muslims visit Mit Damsis for Christian souvenirs

CAIRO – 26 August 2017: Numerous Muslims gathered in Mit Damsis in Dakahlia, by the annual memorial of the Christian Roman soldier Mar Girgis, where they purchased garnished crosses, and sacred images as souvenirs.

Abo Mina, a souvenir salesman, said that he goes to such Christian celebrations that Muslims usually attend, as they are majority and thus the most likely to buy his works.

Muslims prefer Mary, mother of Jesus, old-style garnished crosses and the image of the late pope Shenouda III. They also buy crosses with the names of their neighbours enscribed on them, Mina explained.

Muslim women, more than anyone else, look for images of mother Mary. Pregnant women choose the images of blessed Mary carrying baby Jesus, which they use to ask for guidance when choosing names, Mina added.

Concerning the current price hike, Abo Mina said that price cannot halt love. “What would make Muslims buy the image of Mother Mary but love?” Mina asked.