Singing with St. Mena

Every November 11, on 11 Hatour, St. Mena’s Mariut monastery in Egypt hosts a mulid—a joyful festival where Coptic children sing praises, one tale says, like “Hail to the Wonder-Worker.” Families camp under stars, sharing bread and stories, while deacons chant Mena’s miracles, like his enduring faith in trials. One tale says a boy joined the choir, nervous at first, but through Mena’s intercession, he felt encouraged to sing boldly, his smile uplifting the crowd. One tale says a hymn, “O Mena, Christ’s soldier,” inspires courage, and through Mena’s intercession, they feel uplifted.

This mulid is God’s way of uniting believers through Mena’s intercession. Coptic tradition teaches that singing here lifts prayers through Mena’s intercession to Christ, and children love the tambourines in joyful worship. Even Ethiopian visitors join, drawn to the sacred atmosphere. For kids, this festival honors Mena’s intercession, encouraging them to praise Christ with every note, trusting His care in a big world.