Epiphany embodies unity and solidarity beyond its religious significance — His Holiness Abune Mathias I

Addis Ababa, January 19, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian Epiphany (Timket) embodies unity and solidarity that extend beyond its religious observance, His Holiness Abune Mathias I, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, said.

The Ethiopian Epiphany festival was celebrated across the country on Monday with great enthusiasm, drawing tens of millions of faithful from the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church as well as members of the Ethiopian Catholic Church.

In Addis Ababa, the occasion was marked with vibrant religious ceremonies held at various locations throughout the capital.

One of the main celebrations took place at the historic Jan Meda site, where large crowds gathered for the solemn observance.

During the Jan Meda celebration, HH Abune Mathias I conveyed his Epiphany message to the faithful through the Secretary General of the Holy Synod, His Eminence Abune Dioscoros. The event brought together bishops of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, senior government officials, ambassadors of various countries, and many thousands of worshippers.

In his message, delivered by Abune Dioscoros, the Patriarch emphasized the need for collective efforts to strengthen national unity and social cohesion, underscoring the importance of working together for the country’s development.

Delivering the Patriarch’s message, Abune Dioscoros stated that it is the responsibility of every Ethiopian to safeguard peace and reinforce unity, calling on citizens to join hands in advancing national development.

He further stressed that the present generation bears a responsibility to protect and strengthen the Timket Festival, which is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage and has been preserved by generations of Ethiopians.

He noted that Timket is not only an expression of religious faith but also a vivid manifestation of the unity, goodwill, and moral values of the Ethiopian people.

Abune Dioscoros also explained that just as Lord Jesus Christ cleansed humanity from sin through His baptism in the River Jordan, believers are called upon to understand the deeper spiritual meaning of Epiphany and reflect its teachings in their daily lives.

He added that the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church has consistently fulfilled its responsibility to safeguard the country’s religious, historical, and cultural values.