Meskel 2019: A Message of Faith, Love and Unity

“Therefore, the teachers of the Holy Gospel instructed us to bow before the Cross and the Virgin Mary.” — Abba Giyorgis of Gasicha

Beloved faithful of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church,

Happy Meskel Festival of 2019 E.C.!

As we commemorate this sacred occasion, we first remember the Holy Cross, through which the mystery of our salvation was fulfilled.

When humanity ate from the forbidden tree, became separated from its Creator, and lost hope, God gave the promise of salvation: when 5,500 years had been fulfilled, He would be born from Adam's descendant, grow up in his land, and redeem humanity through His Cross and death.

Because our salvation was accomplished through the Holy Virgin Mary and the Cross, we offer veneration to the Holy Cross and the Virgin Mary, while reserving the worship of adoration for our Creator.

Just as the torches of Meskel are bound together and their united flames illuminate the Demera, we too must join hands in love and remain united without division. As the gathered torches light the bonfire, let us overcome the darkness of division through the light of love and unity.

May God grant us a peaceful celebration!

Melake Genet Memhir Habtewold Tegegn Chief Administrator Behere Tsege Mekane Selam St. Mary Church