ETHIOPIA: Spiritual Awakening: Over 350 Baptized at Our Lady Eme-Buzuhan Parish, Metekel, Ethiopia
Habtamu Abrdew Beture
In a profound display of faith and communal transformation, the Diocese of Bahir Dar-Dessie celebrated the baptism of more than 350 new faithful during the 2026 Easter (Fasika) season. The ceremonies took place at Our Lady Eme-Buzuhan Parish in Gilgel Beles, located in the Metekel Zone of the Benishangul-Gumuz Region.
The mass baptism served as the crowning moment of a transformative Lenten season for the local Gumuz community, marking a significant chapter in the evangelization efforts within the diocese.
Leading up to the Resurrection feast, thousands of established Christians and catechumens (those preparing for baptism) took to the streets of Gilgel Beles for the Way of the Cross.
Participants gathered from various villages and the Mandura Woreda, creating a scene that residents described as “astonishing.” The procession was noted for its pilgrims moving through the city streets with a level of discipline and solemnity that captivated onlookers. Members of the Gumuz community, often misunderstood by urban populations, provided a powerful counter-narrative through their unified prayer and devotion. This public witness of faith has been hailed as a “great testimony” to the residents of the city and a model of liturgical excellence for the wider Church.
The Easter Vigil and subsequent celebrations saw over 350 brothers and sisters receive the Sacrament of Baptism, officially entering the Catholic Church.
Church leaders expressed profound gratitude for this “gift of grace,” noting that the spiritual harvest in the region is far from over. Many more catechumens in surrounding villages are currently undergoing formation and are eagerly awaiting their own baptismal rites later this season.
“Blessed be the name of the Lord for crowning our Parish and Diocese with such a magnificent gift of grace,” the parish leadership shared in a statement
The events in Metekel highlight the vibrant growth of the Catholic Church in Ethiopia’s borderlands. The integration of traditional Gumuz identity with the Catholic faith is creating a unique and fervent expression of the Gospel.
As the Easter season continues, the Diocese remains focused on pastoral care for the newly baptized, ensuring that this “spiritual awakening” translates into long-term community development and deepened faith.
Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!
