Ethiopia is one of the few countries that celebrate their New Year at this time. On 27 September, the ceremony of Meskel will be observed by many Ethiopian Orthodox Christian believers.
Meskel is one of the most significant holidays for the Orthodox Church: arrays of vivid colours, religious chants, huge bonfires (Demera in Amharic) and special feast food called Kitfo (minced meat mixed with butter) combine into a wonderful event that brings together thousands of people at Meskel square in Addis Ababa and at many other locations in Ethiopia every year.
Dating back to the fourth century, Meskel celebrates St Helena’s discovery of the true cross. This is marked by a massive and symbolic procession of representatives of the Orthodox Churches, dressed in colourful robes.
Fresh yellow daisies (Addey Abeba in Amharic) appear in the hands of many people to mark both the coming of the New Year and (hopefully) the end of the rainy season. The flowers are used to construct a cross placed on top of a bonfire. And as dusk falls over the city, the spectators can enjoy the highlight of the programme – when the Demera is lit, accompanied with fireworks and chanting.
I won’t be able to attend this year’s Meskel celebration because I have to be in the United Kingdom. But anyone coming to Ethiopia at this time will be privileged to have a glimpse into a striking portrayal of Ethiopian history and culture.
May I wish all Ethiopian Orthodox Church followers a Happy Meskel!