In a vibrant display of faith and tradition, Ethiopian Orthodox Christians have gathered across the country to commemorate the annual Timket festival, which celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan.
From the shores of Lake Dambal in the Oromia region to the capital city of Addis Ababa, devout worshippers have participated in elaborate processions, prayers and rituals to mark this sacred occasion. In the town of Batu, priests from local churches escorted replicas of the Ark of the Covenant, known as Tabots, which are believed to contain the Ten Commandments. Drummers and chanters accompanied the Tabots, filling the air with spiritual songs.
The processions also included the churches’ ceremonial crosses, which were carried alongside the Tabots. Once the sacred objects were gathered in one place, the priests led a prayer ceremony as the faithful looked on. In Addis Ababa, a priest conducted a symbolic baptism, representing the central event being commemorated.
Across the country, hundreds of thousands of people turned out to celebrate Timket, the most important festival in the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar. The joyous occasion was marked by singing, dancing and taking selfies, as the community expressed their gratitude and devotion to God.
The Timket festival holds deep cultural and religious significance for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, who have observed this tradition for centuries. The vibrant celebrations not only commemorate a pivotal moment in Christian history, but also serve to strengthen the bonds of community and faith within this diverse nation.
