The Catholic Bishops Conference of Ethiopia has issued a heartfelt pastoral message for Advent, urging faithful Christians and people of goodwill to embrace hope, peace, and reconciliation as the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of war, economic challenges, and social divisions.
Meeting during their 57th annual plenary in Mojo, the bishops emphasized the significance of Advent as a time to prepare for the birth of Christ, the Prince of Peace, by engaging in prayer, charity, and acts of compassion.
The bishops expressed deep concern over the ongoing hardships faced by Ethiopian communities, including displacement, loss, and the destruction of vital institutions such as schools and clinics. They highlighted the impact of conflict on pastoral work, with many parishes rendered inaccessible and church personnel operating under threats.
In their message, the bishops called for collective action to promote peace, justice, and unity. They urged individuals and leaders to prioritize dialogue, forgiveness, and reconciliation to heal the nation’s wounds and foster a brighter future.
The bishops also commended ongoing efforts to facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties and emphasized the role of true leadership in seeking truth and working for the common good.
As Ethiopia prepares to celebrate Christmas, the bishops called on citizens to embody the spirit of Christ by extending love, compassion, and support to those suffering. They urged communities to transform hearts and foster environments where hope and peace prevail over division and despair.
“May the light of Christ shine brightly in our lives and guide us as we strive for a future where the promise of peace is realized for all,” the message concluded.