On Saturday morning, November 18, 2017, the 40th day death anniversary of martyr Samaan Shehata, priest of St. Julius of Aqfahs in Ezbet Gerges Beik, Baba and alFashn Diocese, was held in the church.
The Holy Mass was held by Their Eminence Bishop Stephanos, Bishop Damian, Bishop and Abbot of Sts. Mary and Philopatir Mercurious Monastery, Höxter, Germany, and attended By Their Eminences Bishop Botros, General Bishop and Bishop Peter, Bishop of North and South Carolina and Kentucky.
As well as a large number of priests, monks, and congregation participated in the Mass.
HG Bishop Stephanos said in his sermon “In spite of the openness of nations and peoples, martyrdom has not ended.