PM Abiy Ahmed extends warm Meskel holiday greetings to Ethiopians celebrating the festival

Addis Ababa, September 26, 2025 (FMC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ethiopians observing the 2018 E.C. (2025) Meskel-Demera Festival, celebrated mainly by Ethiopian Orthodox and Catholic Christians to commemorate the discovery of the True Cross, traditionally attributed to Queen Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine.

This year, the Meskel celebrations commence today with the setup of Demera bonfires across the country. While many regional states will begin their festivities later today, in some areas the Demera will be lit at night or at dawn on September 27. The timing and traditions vary from place to place, reflecting Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity.

In his message, the Prime Minister highlighted the enduring significance of Meskel, emphasizing that truth can never be buried and that the festival offers a timeless lesson on resilience, hope, and national renewal.

He recalled that the Holy Cross was once hidden on a mountain, and those who concealed it believed it would remain lost forever. Even some of the faithful had begun to despair. Over time, those who thought they had triumphed rejoiced, confident that the Cross had vanished. Yet, when the appointed time arrived, the Cross emerged—rising from the dust and soil to reveal its full glory. Truth, like the Cross, ultimately prevails, exposing falsehood and standing firm against all odds.

Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia’s truth and potential mirror this enduring lesson. Just as the crowing of roosters cannot halt the sunrise, and the wings of bats cannot dim its light, no challenge or opposition can prevent Ethiopia from rising and fulfilling its promise.

He further noted that the nation’s strength and promise, like the Cross, will overcome obstacles and shine forth, confounding those who doubted its path.

Guided by the principle of Medemer—synergy and unity—Ethiopians are poised to foster prosperity and witness the country’s renewed strength, PM Abiy asserted.

The Prime Minister concluded by expressing his hope that the Ethiopian New Year, 2018, will be a year of light, hope, and national progress, and wished all Ethiopians a joyful and blessed Meskel Festival.