Ethiopian Catholic Bishop Appeals for Peace and Responsible Leadership in New Year Message

Bishop Tesfaselassie Medhin of the Catholic Eparchy of Adigrat in Ethiopia called for peace and responsible leadership in a message marking the Ethiopian New Year.

According to an Agenzia Fides report published September 16, Bishop Medhin urged political leaders to serve all citizens, particularly the vulnerable, by following the example of Christ as a servant leader. He stated that leaders have a moral duty to protect peaceful people, respond to emergencies caused by famine and drought, create opportunities for youth, uphold human dignity, and pursue reconciliation.

The bishop's appeal comes as Ethiopia faces ongoing challenges including conflict, displacement, poverty, and unemployment. The Ethiopian New Year, Enkutatash, was celebrated on September 11, marking the start of the year 2019 on the Ethiopian calendar.