The 34th regular General Parish Holy Council begins
In his opening speech, Abune Mathias stated that the church`s children are renouncing it and joining other denominations at an alarming rate. His Holiness the patriarch called participants of the meeting to look into the root causes of ‘the exodus’ asking why believers are leaving the church: “Why are believers leaving the church and joining other camps? Do they lack teachers? Or is there a problem in the church’s doctrine? Or is it due to maladministration? Is there shortage of clergies? Or are the other camps better than us?”
The Patriarch also suggested solutions which need more attention going forward. He said, “As we are not discharging our pastoral responsibilities properly, we should rise together for boundless evangelization. We should also put in place transparent and accountable administration in line with the teachings of our church, and one that ensures the supremacy of the law, as maladministration in the church is leading many believers astray.”
His Grace Abune Matewos, General Manager of the Patriarchate and Archbishop of Wolayta Konta and Dawro Dioceses also noted, “We should preserve our ancient church and strengthen its role in the society by reinforcing parish councils and the church`s overall mission as well as boosting its development efforts to meet the challenges of today`s world.“
Dr Abba Haile Mariam Melese, Deputy Manager of the General Patriarchate, presented detailed report of the 2014/2015 fiscal year. In his report, Dr. Abba Haile Mariam mentioned main activities of the office of His Holiness the Patriarch, the Council of Church scholars (Yelikawnt Guba’e), Parish Council department, Finance and Budget department, Monastery department, Heritage Preservation, Library and Archives department, Evangelic Service and Apostolic Mission department, Mahibere Kidusan etc. The General Holy Parish Council will continue until October 23, 2015.