In a vibrant celebration of faith and community, Ethiopians from diverse backgrounds came together to commemorate Fasika, the joyous Easter festival that signifies the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This year’s festivities were imbued with heartfelt prayers, cherished traditions, and a powerful appeal for peace and unity, resonating amidst the country’s ongoing challenges.
Fasika, rich with the diverse heritage of Ethiopian Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant customs, unfolded with profound religious observances in churches and homes, where the harmonious sounds of hymns filled the air like sacred music. Dressed in their finest attire, many donned traditional white shamma that danced gently in the breeze as they gathered for the pivotal midnight masses. The atmosphere perfectly blended solemnity with unbridled joy, encapsulating themes of sacrifice, love, humility, and, above all, charity. Religious leaders fervently reinforced the importance of these values as essential catalysts for fostering reconciliation and healing across the nation.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed delivered a compelling message, broadcast nationwide, urging Ethiopians to embark on profound self-reflection inspired by the rich lessons of Easter. He called for patience and empathy, especially in light of the ongoing instability in the Amhara and Tigray regions. “Let Fasika light our way toward renewal—not just for our individual spirits but for our collective commitment to peace and understanding,” Abiy passionately declared. “This sacred season invites us to truly listen to one another and rise together as one people.”
Religious leaders across major cities-including Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, and Mekelle—resonated with the Prime Minister’s message in their heartfelt sermons, urging congregants to embody the essence of charity and extend compassion to those displaced or affected by conflict. In a testament to this spirit, communities organized numerous charitable initiatives, including touching food drives and communal feasts that exemplified the Easter doctrine of selfless giving. Families united in preparing beloved traditional dishes, like injera and doro wat, sharing these delightful meals with neighbors—an inspiring embodiment of compassion and community flourishing among them.
This year’s Fasika marked a remarkable revival of large public celebrations, reflecting a collective yearning for unity after years of muted observances due to health restrictions and turmoil. Streets were adorned with vibrant banners, and the air was alive with laughter and music, sparking an optimistic hope for a more harmonious future.
As night fell over the city, candles flickered within homes and churches, casting a warm, inviting glow upon the faces of families gathered for this sacred occasion. The enticing aroma of traditional meals wafted through the air, harmonizing with the sounds of heartfelt conversations and earnest prayers. In these precious moments, the spirit of unity shifted from a mere idea to a deeply felt reality, offering a pause for spiritual reflection and embodying the enduring resilience of the Ethiopian people as they navigate the complexities of their journey together.
Image Source:scmp.com