Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Leaders Restore Unity Through Discussion and Absolution

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) Synod announced on February 15, 2023, that church unity has been restored following consultations among several senior bishops. The resolution came after discussions involving Archbishop Rufale, Archbishop Ermias, Archbishop Natnael, and other designated leaders, including Archbishop Sawiros, Archbishop Ewstatios, and Archbishop Zenamarkos. The Synod emphasized that these efforts reaffirmed the church’s commitment to maintaining internal harmony.

The EOTC expressed appreciation for the contributions of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, acknowledging his role in facilitating the restoration of Synod unity. The church leadership highlighted the importance of continued collaboration to address internal challenges and strengthen the institution’s future.

Among the key priorities outlined by the Synod is the enhancement of theological education. The leaders agreed to focus on strengthening training colleges and universities that can reinforce faith through the Afaan Oromo language. This initiative aims to ensure that the next generation of church members is well-equipped to uphold and pass on the faith.

The Synod also emphasized the need for ongoing work to address the broader responsibilities of the church. These include maintaining the spiritual and communal life of its congregations, as well as engaging in mission and charity work that aligns with its teachings. The leaders stressed the importance of unity in carrying out these duties.

The article also includes additional reports on Ethiopia’s geopolitical challenges, including discussions about the country’s defense of its interests in the Abay River and Red Sea regions. However, these topics are not directly related to the church’s internal matters and are presented as separate news items.

The Synod’s resolution reflects a commitment to resolving differences through dialogue and mutual understanding. This approach aligns with the biblical principle of seeking peace and reconciliation, as seen in the call to “make peace” and “reconcile” in the context of community and faith.

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