Addis Ababa, March 13, 2022 (FBC) – The late 4th Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church, Abune Merorios has been laid to rest at Holy Trinity Cathedral in the capital Addis Ababa after a great funeral ceremony attended by thousands of faithful from across the country, religious leaders from various countries, government officials including President Sahle-Work Zewde and members of the diplomatic community.
Bishops of Coptic Church of Egypt, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church of India, Representatives of the Holy See and All Africa Conference of Churches and religious fathers from various countries of the world attended the burial service of the late Patriarch.
Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church, Abune Matias extended his benediction to the gatherings at the funeral ceremony.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed paid tribute to the late Patriarch honoring his contribution in promoting peace and unity in Ethiopia.
The 4th Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church, His Holiness Abune Merkorios passed away at age of 84 while receiving treatment at a hospital.
His Holiness Abune Merkorios was in exile due to forced eviction orchestrated by the TPLF although he returned home following the announcement of the current reform.
Abune Merkorios taught the highest religious teachings including ‘Digua’ in monasteries and served the church at several positions with strong spiritual devotion for several decades at home and abroad.
His Holiness Abune Merkorios was consecrated as a Bishop in 1979 while he was enthroned as a Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church in 1988.