Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Church will hold its papal elections on October 29 instead of November 24, announced Bishop Paul.

In light of this advancement, a new Pope will be elected by November 4 instead of December 2, reported the Middle East News Agency.

One of three final candidates will be drawn by a blindfolded child in accordance with the church's traditions.

According to Coptic Church traditions, papal elections must take place within 30 days of announcing the final list of candidates. This means a new Pope must assume the post by November 13 at the most

Pope Shenouda, who headed the Coptic Church from 1971, died on March 17, earlier this year, at the age of 88.