As Christmas nears, Ethiopian Catholic bishops have called on the nation’s leaders and citizens to prioritize peace and reconciliation amid ongoing ethnic conflicts and a humanitarian crisis. The bishops’ message, issued after their annual assembly, urged the faithful to embody the teachings of the “King of Peace” and work toward unity in a country deeply divided by conflict.
The bishops emphasized that Advent, the season leading up to Christmas, reminds Christians of God’s love and the promise of peace brought by Jesus Christ. “Let us commit to being peacemakers in our own lives,” they urged, highlighting the need for all to embrace peace as a way to heal a nation torn by division.
Challenges to the Church’s Mission Amid Ethnic Unrest
The bishops expressed concern over the disruption caused by ongoing violence in Ethiopia, particularly in the Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia regions. Many Church institutions, including schools, clinics, and pastoral centers, have been damaged, and some parishes have had to close due to insecurity. Church personnel have faced threats, with some forced to flee affected areas.
Despite the 2022 peace agreement between the Ethiopian federal government and Tigray forces, instability continues in the region, while violence in Amhara and Oromia has worsened, resulting in widespread suffering.
A Call for Dialogue and Forgiveness
The bishops appealed to Ethiopian leaders from all sectors to engage in dialogue and prioritize justice and peace. They stressed that true leadership involves listening, seeking truth, and working for the common good. They also emphasized the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, urging leaders to continue efforts to mediate peace.
Compassion for the Grieving and Displaced
In their message, the bishops called on Ethiopians to extend compassion to those suffering from the effects of conflict. They urged the faithful to keep those grieving and living in fear in their prayers, hoping that the light of Christ would guide the nation toward healing and unity.
Despite the challenges, the bishops expressed hope that Ethiopia could become a “beacon of hope, peace, and unity,” with the power of faith leading the way to a brighter future for all.
