Ethiopian Church
Biography of Ethiopian Church
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church is one of the oldest Christian institutions in the world, tracing its origins to the 4th century when Christianity was adopted as the state religion of the Kingdom of Aksum. It remains the predominant faith in Ethiopia and Eritrea, preserving ancient liturgies, languages, and traditions.
History
- 4th century — Frumentius, later known as Abune Selama, brings Christianity to Aksum and becomes its first bishop
- 7th—15th centuries — Development of unique Ge’ez liturgy and monasticism; church enjoys royal patronage
- 1959 — Autocephaly granted by the Coptic Orthodox Church, establishing an independent Ethiopian patriarchate
Beliefs and Theology
- Miaphysite Christology — Affirms the united divine and human nature of Christ
- Seven sacraments, including baptism, confirmation, Eucharist, repentance, marriage, ordination, and unction of the sick
- Veneration of the Virgin Mary and a rich calendar of saints and feast days
Liturgy and Worship
- Services conducted primarily in Ge’ez, an ancient Semitic liturgical language
- Use of distinctive liturgical music (Zema) and processions with crosses and incense
- Fasting traditions, including the Great Fast (Lent) lasting 55 days and Wednesdays/Fridays throughout the year
Organization and Hierarchy
- Led by the Patriarch (Catholicos) of Ethiopia, assisted by metropolitan archbishops
- Dioceses headed by bishops, with parish priests and deacons serving local communities
- Monastic orders play a vital role in theological education, manuscript preservation, and spiritual life
Cultural and Social Impact
- Guardian of a vast collection of illuminated manuscripts and ancient church art
- Influence on Ethiopian architecture, with distinctive rock-hewn and stone churches
- Central role in festivals such as Timkat (Epiphany) and Meskel (Finding of the True Cross), drawing pilgrims nationwide
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