This year, believers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church celebrated Christmas with prayers for peace and prosperity in the country, Arab News reports. The Ethiopian Church follows the Julian calendar, marking Christmas on January 7.

The celebration took place amid ongoing conflicts that have affected the East African nation in recent years — with the repercussions still felt today. Despite a peace agreement in 2022, the situation in the Amhara and Oromia regions remains unstable. Recently, various parts of the country experienced natural disasters. Earthquakes last week in isolated areas of Afar, Amhara, and Oromia left thousands homeless.

In his Christmas address, Patriarch Abune Mathias of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church called for unity and reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of peace and love. He reminded the faithful that true peace cannot be achieved without reverence for God and adherence to His commandments.

Festive liturgies were held in the country’s largest churches, including the Medhane Alem Cathedral in Addis Ababa. One parishioner, Almaz Zewdiya, told reporters she prayed for an end to violence and the restoration of peace, recalling her loved ones affected by the conflicts.

Priest Isaias Seyoum noted that for Ethiopians, Christmas is not only a holiday but also an opportunity to show compassion by sharing meals with those in need.

Additionally, the head of the Ethiopian Catholic Church, Cardinal Abune Berhaneyesus, and the leader of the Evangelical Churches, Pastor Tzadiku Abdo, urged believers to support the sick, prisoners, and those affected by conflicts.

In his sermon, Patriarch Abune Mathias quoted the Bible, reminding the congregation that Christ’s birth brought blessings to the world. He highlighted the importance of preserving spiritual and moral values in society, urging Ethiopians to live in harmony and work for the nation’s welfare.