Can I greet non-Coptics during Holy Thursday?
By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10
In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, Holy Thursday (often referred to as Covenant Thursday or) is a day of deep solemnity, marking the institution of the Eucharist and the Mandatum (the washing of the feet).
Regarding your greeting of non-Coptics:
1. The Nature of the Day
Holy Thursday falls within Holy Pascha Week, which is the most sacred time in the Coptic Church. During this week, we focus entirely on the sufferings of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Because it is a time of mourning and asceticism, the Church traditionally refrains from festive greetings or social pleasantries.
2. Interactions with Others (Non-Coptics, Protestants, and others)
While the Coptic Orthodox faith is the true Orthodox faith, we are called to act with the wisdom of the Fathers.
- Avoid Festive Language: You should not use joyous greetings (like "Happy Thursday") because this day marks the beginning of the Lord’s arrest and the betrayal by Judas.
- The "Kiss of Peace": Liturgically, on this day, we do not give the "Kiss of Peace" in the liturgy, remembering the deceitful kiss of Judas. In the same spirit, our social interactions should remain somber and focused on the Cross.
- Witnessing the Truth: If a non-Coptic person or a heretic (such as a Protestant who does not believe in the Real Presence of the Body and Blood) greets you, you may respond respectfully but straightforwardly. You do not need to adopt their secular or festive tone. The truth of the passion of Christ is not something to be suppressed for political correctness.
3. Proper Conduct
If you must speak with those outside the faith, remain professional and respectful as a representative of the Church. However, Coptic tradition encourages minimizing social distractions during this day to focus on the Liturgy of the Waters and the Covenant Liturgy.
In summary: You may greet others out of necessity or basic courtesy, but you should avoid any sense of "celebration" or "festivity." Our focus remains on the Upper Room and the path to Golgotha.