Egyptian Christianity primarily refers to the Christian faith as practiced in Egypt, which has a rich history dating back to the early centuries of the Church. The majority of Egyptian Christians belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church, one of the oldest Christian denominations, founded by Saint Mark in the 1st century AD. Copts, as they are known, have maintained their unique traditions, language, and liturgical practices over the centuries. The Coptic Church emphasizes the significance of the Coptic language, a direct descendant of ancient Egyptian, in its religious services. Egyptian Christians celebrate various religious festivals, including Coptic Christmas and Coptic Easter, which often differ from those observed in Western Christianity. Despite facing challenges and persecution, the Coptic community continues to play a vital role in Egypt's cultural and religious landscape.