Meskel, finding of the true cross upon which Jesus was crucified, is celebrated as a powerful symbol of unity, cooperation, and solidarity among Ethiopians, head of the administrative department of the Patriarchate of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Akalewold Tesema remarked.
Meskel, meaning the Cross in Amharic is an annual religious Ethiopian holiday among Orthodox Christian believers. Ethiopian Christians will celebrate this year’s Meskel this week across the country.
The feast of Meskel begins on the coming Thursday with the celebration of the “Demera”, a ceremonial burning of a large bonfire.
Akalewold said the event transcends religious teachings, fostering a sense of togetherness and hope across the country describing the holiday as a significant religious observance.
The word “Demera” means “gathering,” and the festival is characterized by devotees lighting torches to express their faith. Akalewold emphasized that the event embodies values such as unity, love, forgiveness, and gratitude.
T
he United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has recognized the importance of the Demera celebration, affirming its cultural significance.
According to Akalewold, the festival reinforces the values of unity and solidarity, serving as a platform for practical expressions of peace and togetherness.
“Preaching unity is a tangible manifestation of harmony,” he stated. “The holidays are marked by sermons promoting peace and unity, and the cross embodies the greatest value of uniting diverse elements, finding what is lost, and drawing those distant from God closer.”
He emphasized that spiritual festivals play a crucial role in fostering unity and solidarity among people, extending beyond religious doctrines.
“The church’s core teaching is unity and harmony,” he explained. “When we celebrate such spiritual holidays, we prioritize unity and, especially when we celebrate togetherness, we are united through sacrifice.”
Akalewold also noted that the festival attracts numerous visitor
s to the country, contributing to tourism development.
He called for the continuation of the interdependence and unity demonstrated during the holidays as a regular practice, urging all citizens to actively participate in preserving the festival’s religious significance and celebrating it peacefully.
“The festival’s recognition as an Intangible World Heritage Site by UNESCO is due to its promotion of peace,” he stated. “It is highly regarded not only by Orthodox Christians but also by others.”
By celebrating this festival with a spiritual ceremony, Ethiopia has provided a platform to peacefully commemorate its country as an intangible heritage on the world stage.
This opportunity has attracted a significant number of tourists, underscoring the festival’s broader cultural significance, he underscore.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency