The church has recently reopened for worship services.
Photo: World Watch Monitor
After eight months of extensive restoration work, Christians in the city of Tanta (north of Cairo) were elated over the re-opening of St. George's Cathedral which had been destroyed during last year's Palm Sunday suicide bombing attack.
As of its re-opening, the church has been renamed the Cathedral of St. George and the Martyrs, and its blood-splattered pillars have been left untouched, as reminders of the many precious lives that were lost in the attack.
The cathedral was one of two church buildings that were attacked on the same day by suicide bombers who were intent on targeting Christians celebrating Palm Sunday. Between the two churches -- the other located in Alexandria, 128 kilometres northwest of Tanta -- more than 40 people were killed and over 100 injured. (A previous report on the attacks may be reviewed here.)
"Everyone is amazed to see the church rise from the ashes, and the ruins metamorphose into a lofty, exceptionally beautiful building," states local bishop, Anba Pola. "Screams of horror at the martyrs' spilt blood have now turned into joyful adulation." Pray that the restored church building will be used for God's glory and the blessing of His people, and that all who enter it will be protected and at peace.
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