ADDIS ABABA-Religious leaders called on followers in their Easter message to stand and pray for peace and extend support to elders, orphans and the disfavored while observing the holiday.
The religious leaders also stressed that the resurrection of Jesus Christ has brought salvation and peace to all humankind.
Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church His Holiness Abune Mathias I said Jesus’ resurrection gives the lesson of forgiveness to the faithful, as Easter is the festivity of peace, reconciliation, compassion and conscience.
Abune Mathias also noted that Easter is the manifestation of God’s eternal love to humankind and guides Christans to stand together for the glory of God and the safety of humanity. “I called on the faithful in the name of God to mark Easter together with the poor, the sick and those in jail.”
Archbishop of the Ethiopian Catholic Church Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew urged followers to be weapons of peace as reconciliation is the only key to overcome Ethiopia’s existing and emerging challenges. “We need to struggle for peace in this Easter and onwards as well.”
Cardinal Berhaneyesus added, “When we celebrate this Easter, we are responsible to support orphans and displaced citizens everywhere in the country.”
President of the Evangelical Churches Fellowship of Ethiopia Pastor Tsadiku Abdo said, “Let us away from hatred, arrogance and revenge and stay with others in a loving and respectful manner.”
Pastor Tsadiku also called on adherents to collaborate with the government in safeguarding their own peace.
President of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church MekaneYesus Rev. YonasYigezu said, “We were created in God’s resemblance and everyone should love and accept their brothers and sisters in compassion especially during Easter.”
“Let us go in a new way, learn from the past and select the path of Jesus Christ since we are brothers and sisters in faith. Easter is a holiday of reconciliation since all old things have passed,” he remarked.
BY MISGANAWASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 5 MAY 2024
