Ethiopians Celebrate Demera

Addis Ababa, September 26, 2017 –Followers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church today celebrated Demera, the tradition of burning bonfire on the eve of Meskel.

Meskel commemorates the finding of the True Cross by Saint Helena in the fourth century AD..

Abune Mathias, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, said “the celebration is a demonstration of our peace,” adding Ethiopian Christians need to strengthen their unity and do their part to take Ethiopia to its former glory.

The Patriarch also expressed his sorrow over the death, injury and displacement of innocent people by the recent border conflict between the Oromia and Ethiopian Somali regional states.

His Holiness Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Paulos II, Catholicos of the East and the Supreme Head of the Indian Orthodox Church, said his Church would strengthen its ties with Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

Paulose II also expressed his delight over the registration of Meskel festival by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Demera was also celebrated in huge gatherings at the famous Meskel Squares in other big cities. Smaller bonfires are also lit throughout the country in backyards and on the street corners of villagers.

Source: FBC