Ethiopia celebrates Orthodox Xmas

ADDIS ABABA. — Ethiopia, one of the earliest nations to embrace Christianity, continues to honour its rich religious heritage.

This year, thousands of Ethiopian pilgrims and international tourists gathered in the historic town of Lalibela to celebrate Orthodox Christmas at one of the world’s oldest and most unique churches.

Lalibela’s churches, built in the 12th century during the reign of King Lalibela, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remain a pilgrimage destination for millions of Christians each year.

 The churches, carved directly into solid rock, stand as a reminder of Ethiopia’s ancient connection to Christianity and its unique religious practices.

The Orthodox Christmas, known as “Lidet” in Ethiopia, takes place on January 7.

The three-day festival, filled with religious ceremonies and family gatherings, draws believers from across the country and around the world.

This year, thousands of worshippers attended a church service in Lalibela to mark the birth of Jesus, showcasing Ethiopia’s enduring commitment to its Christian faith.

Samuel Choi, a tourist from Hong Kong, was among the visitors who marvelled at the cultural richness of the celebration.

“You have such a wonderful, rich heritage. It’s very unique in the world,” Choi said.

“There are no other places you can find that I am quite free, when I came and saw all these people all come in for one reason, to celebrate the birth of Jesus. And so I’m actually very thrilled and very happy to be able to be in Ethiopia.”

The Orthodox Christmas celebration is not only about faith but also about maintaining centuries-old traditions. — africanews.