ETHIOPIA: Change of Guard at Ethiopian Bishops Conference’s Secretariat
Bishop Lukas Fikre handing over to the new Secretary General
Bezawit Assefa
Having served with dedication for seven years as Deputy and later the Secretary General, Bishop Lukas Teshome Fikre has concluded his leadership as the Secretary General of the Ethiopian Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ECBC) and handed over to Reverend Abba Ketema Asfaw.
After his consecration as the Coadjutor Bishop for Emdibir Eparchy, in February, Bishop Fikre continued offering his services as the Secretary-General for ECBC
In a ceremony attended by Bishops, religious leaders, provincials, leaders of the Inter-religious council of Ethiopia, partner organizations, General secretariat staff, and guests, His Excellency Abune Lukas officially transitioned leadership of the General Office to Reverend Abba Ketema Asfaw.
At the ceremony, the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia Cardinal Berhaneyesus lauded the remarkable contributions of Abune Lukas Teshome Fikre to the Church. He particularly emphasized Abune Lukas’ leadership during Ethiopia’s challenging times, including natural disasters, internal conflicts, nationwide drought, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cardinal Berhaneyesus commended Abune Lukas, stating, “Throughout these hardships, His Excellency has proven himself to be a strategic leader and a great support to the Bishops’ Conference. His presence has been and will continue to be, a significant asset to our Catholic community.” Following this tribute, His Eminence warmly welcomed Reverend Abba Ketema Asfaw to the Secretariat.
Reflecting on his tenure at the conference, Abune Lukas expressed his pride in the Catholic Church in Ethiopia’s journey. Through dedicated efforts, the Church has established strong institutions, structures, and systems to ensure its mission remains vibrant and enduring. He highlighted the recent years’ emphasis on synodality – a spirit of communion, participation, and mission – as a key approach to fostering deeper evangelization.
Abune Lukas then outlined the crucial directions guiding the Church’s mission in Ethiopia. He concluded by expressing his sincere gratitude to Cardinal Berhaneyesus for his unwavering guidance, love, and care, and to Abune Mussie Ghebreghiorghis for his generosity in allowing him to serve the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia.
Taking the stage, Reverend Abba Ketema extended a call for prayer, cooperation, and support from clergy, church institutions, partners, donors, government officials, staff, and all stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of this collective effort in fulfilling the Church’s mission and serving the needs of the community.
A shared sense of gratitude and support resonated throughout the day, with representatives of all participants conveying their thanks and solidarity to both Abune Luke and Abba Ketema.
