Ethiopian Orthodox Patriarch Calls for National Peace Through Unity, Reconciliation

Addis Ababa, September 26, 2026 (ENA) —Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, His Holiness Abune Mathias, has called on Ethiopians to work earnestly for comprehensive national peace by overcoming obstacles to unity and progress with patience and foresight.

In his fatherly message delivered during the Meskel Demera celebration at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa, Abune Mathias stressed the importance of unity, progress and a shared commitment to reconciliation.

“The primary message of the Cross is to establish peace and unity, forgiveness and reconciliation, as well as love and harmony among all mankind,” Abune Mathias said.

 

He urged Ethiopians to confront challenges that hinder national unity and progress with patience and farsightedness, stressing the need for sustained efforts to achieve lasting peace and unity across the country.

The Patriarch said the message of Meskel and the Cross carries a universal call for peace, forgiveness, reconciliation and harmony, the Patriarch described as essential to Ethiopia’s pursuit of national unity and peaceful coexistence.

The Demera ceremony was colorfully celebrated at Meskel Square, bringing together Holy Bishops, senior government officials, foreign ambassadors and diplomats, international visitors, church followers and members of the wider community.

 

The celebration placed Ethiopia’s centuries-old religious and cultural heritage at the center of a powerful message of peace, unity and reconciliation.