Statement of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church Patriarch on the Current Situation of Ethiopia
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church Patriarch, His Holiness Abune Mathias gave a statement regarding the current situation of the country on August 9, 2016.The statement emphasizes on the benefit of peace quoting from (Colossians 3:15) and urged the people to live in harmony with their bothers.
As always, the ultimate goal of Church is to keep peace and to let the people enjoy from its fruit. Ethiopian Orthodox Church is the founder of the nation, the mother of the population, an advocate of peace, love, unity and freedom of the people. It is also an undeniable fact that the people of our country maintain their freedom, love, brotherhood for three thousand years through peaceful religious doctrine of the Church.
Even though the greatness and mutual coexistence our people enjoyed have been long-lasting, currently the Church looks at the recent developments in the country with serious concern. It expresses its sadness about the loss of its children’s lives, as well as, destruction of property, due to the mass rallies in different parts of the country.
Thus, the Patriarch gives the following statements with a view to avoid further problems and damages that hinder the ongoing development program, as well as to keep citizens enjoy their right to life and to work.
1. Our Church by saying, “the name of peace sounds sweet always” not only teaches about the benefits of peace but prays and sings about it. In all Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church parish churches message about peace should be communicated so that all people fast and pray in these fasting days of St. Mary for the problem that has occurred in the country ends and is addressed legally, based on a spirit of brotherhood and discussion.
2. The Church calls upon elderly people, intellectuals, heads of families to teach and counsel their children and the youth of their respective localities with a view human life would not be lost; property of the country could be saved from destruction.
3. The Church notifies that all bodies should put forward any concerns they may have to the appropriate body in a peaceful manner for it to be addressed through discussion and consultation as well as handling the matter peacefully all the way.
4. The Church expresses its deep felt sorrow over lives lost and property destroyed due to the misunderstanding that occurred. We pray to God to save the souls of people who lost their lives and to make their families strong in this difficult time.
5. God tells us, “ I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior. ” (1Tim 2:1-3) Accordingly, our Church calls upon bishops in various dioceses, fathers, and preachers in monasteries and parish churches to teach the people about peace and love, unity and understanding so that peace and stability could continue in our country.