Ethiopia: More than 60 Christians killed in massacre, church official says

Source: Aciafrica.org

Mass Killing of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians in Oromia

In late October, Ethiopia's Oromia region was shaken by a series of attacks that left more than sixty Orthodox Christians dead, many others injured, and numerous families displaced from their homes. The violence occurred in communities where armed attackers targeted villages largely inhabited by members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

Church leaders reported that the attacks unfolded over several days. In addition to the loss of life, homes were burned, property was destroyed, and surviving residents were forced to flee in search of safety. Children, elderly persons, and entire families were among those affected. The tragedy has deepened fears among Christian communities already living amid ongoing insecurity in parts of Oromia.

The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church responded with profound sorrow and strong condemnation. The bishops described the killings as brutal and unacceptable acts that violate the sanctity of human life and fundamental religious freedoms. They emphasized that no faith tradition can justify such violence and called upon all Ethiopians to reject hatred and bloodshed.

Church leaders also expressed concern that these attacks reflect a broader pattern of insecurity that has affected some Christian communities in the region. They warned that repeated incidents of violence, displacement, and intimidation have left many people living with uncertainty and fear. The bishops appealed to civil authorities to investigate the killings thoroughly, identify those responsible, and provide effective protection for vulnerable communities.

At the same time, Christian leaders urged believers not to respond with vengeance. Instead, they called the faithful to prayer, mourning, and solidarity with those who have suffered. Orthodox churches and monasteries were encouraged to remember the victims during worship services and to pray for grieving families, the wounded, and those who have been displaced from their homes.

The tragedy has also renewed calls for reconciliation and peace within Ethiopia. Religious leaders from different Christian traditions have emphasized the need for justice, dialogue, and mutual respect among the country's diverse ethnic and religious communities. Their message is that lasting peace will require not only accountability for acts of violence but also a commitment to healing divisions and protecting the dignity of every citizen.

As Christians around the world remember the victims, they are invited to:

pray for comfort for those who mourn, 

healing for the injured, 

protection for displaced families, 

wisdom for government leaders, 

and a future in which all Ethiopians may live in peace and practice their faith without fear.