Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Begins Annual Session

Addis Ababa, May 14, 2025 (FMC) — The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) convened its annual meeting in Addis Ababa this morning.

In his opening address, His Holiness Abune Mathias I, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, underscored the importance of safeguarding national peace through the resolution of differences and challenges via peaceful dialogue.

He emphasized that the Church’s mission goes beyond spiritual matters, encompassing economic and social responsibilities as well. His Holiness urged the clergy to lead by example through practical engagement in improving social services and contributing to efforts that lift communities out of poverty.

Abune Mathias I, the Sixth Patriarch and Catholicos of Ethiopia, Archbishop of Axum, and Ichege of the See of Saint Taklehaimanot, reiterated the need for a collective commitment to finding lasting, peaceful solutions to the country’s challenges.

The Synod will assess the Church’s performance in spiritual, social, economic, and administrative areas and provide strategic direction for its future work.