Thousands of faithful of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church gathered at Meskel Square in the country’s capital, Addis Ababa, to celebrate the Nativity of Christ according to the Julian calendar, local media reported. Major Christmas celebrations traditionally took place in Addis Ababa and in Lalibela, the historic city renowned for its rock-hewn Christian churches.

In his Christmas message, Ethiopian Orthodox Patriarch Abune Mathias emphasized the importance of peace and unity at a time of profound national hardship. “God awaits peace and love from us. There is no greater proof of this than His incarnation—God became man and appeared among us,” the patriarch said. “On this feast, we pray for peace in our country and support those who lack food, clothing and shelter.”

The celebrations were held against a backdrop of continuing instability in Ethiopia. Ethnic violence persists in the Amhara and Oromia regions, where millions have been displaced, while tensions and the threat of renewed conflict are again rising in the northern Tigray region.

Alongside external challenges, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church is also facing internal strains. Patriarch Abune Mathias warned as early as October of last year about the risk of division within the Church, as well as persecution of believers and the destruction of churches. In his address, he pointed to internal disputes among clergy and external pressures—including attacks on churches, harassment of the faithful and efforts to discredit the Church—as creating a critical situation. He also alluded to possible interference by state authorities, which observers say may be weakening the influence of the traditional Church, including through distorted use of its rites. If left unresolved, the patriarch warned, these challenges could threaten the Church’s unity and the trust of its believers.

Despite these difficulties, Christmas was marked with particular solemnity and devotion. According to tradition, each worshipper entering the service is given a candle and circles the church three times before the liturgy begins. During the service, men, women and the choir form concentric circles inside the church or in the open square outside. Many participants wear traditional white garments, symbolizing purity and the joy of the feast.

On Christmas night, processions of believers carrying lit candles and singing hymns move through the streets. The celebration follows a 43-day fast and culminates in a traditional festive meal, often featuring doro wat, a spiced chicken stew, and injera, a flatbread that serves as both plate and utensil. The holiday also includes traditional games resembling hockey and family gatherings, with the central focus placed on prayer, unity and spiritual joy.