Pope Tawadros II presided over Mass as Christians celebrate Christmas, amidst high levels of security. The service was attended by a large number of bishops and members of the clergy. The sound of bells ringing out as churches celebrated Mass demonstrated Egyptian joy at having endured and come through difficult conditions, while the prospect of a new constitution and unity and cohesion between religions in Egypt indicates a brighter future (Mustafá Barakāt, al-Dustūr, Jan. 7, p. 3).