Abune Tesfaye installed as new Archeparch of Addis Ababa

The occasion marked a historic day for the Catholic Church in Ethiopia, and particularly for the Archeparchy of Addis Ababa. After nearly 27 years of pastoral leadership, Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel handed over the pastoral ministry of the Archeparchy to the newly appointed Metropolitan Archeparch, Abune Tesfaye (Tesfasilasie) Tadesse Gebresilasie.

Among those present at the installation Eucharist were the Apostolic Nuncio to Ethiopia, Somalia and Djibouti, Archbishop Brian Udaigwe; numerous Ethiopian bishops; priests, brothers and sisters working in Addis Ababa and beyond; and members of the Comboni family, including Assistant General Brother Alberto Lamana.

Also in attendance were a bishop from the Orthodox Church and the Orthodox Patriarch’s secretary, representatives from other Chuches and several Church international partners, benefactors, relatives and friends of Abune Tesfaye.

The transfer of pastoral ministry was celebrated under the theme: “Looking back with gratitude, walking forward with hope.”

A solemn celebration in the Ethiopian Catholic Rite

The solemn Eucharist, celebrated according to the Ethiopian Catholic Rite, began at approximately 8:00 a.m. under the presidency of Cardinal Berhaneyesus. Following the homily and the formal transfer of pastoral responsibility, Abune Tesfaye continued to lead the celebration.

In his homily, Archbishop Brian Udaigwe noted that he had little advice to offer the new Archeparch, given that Abune Tesfaye already had considerable experience as a bishop. 

Mgr. Tesfaye has been a bishop since February 2025.

Nevertheless, the Apostolic Nuncio invited him to keep his eyes fixed on Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd and model of all shepherds. He recalled that Jesus did not come to liberate his people through the power of arms, as many Israelites had expected, but through love and, ultimately, through the Cross.

“He gave an example of how to guide and govern the people,” the Nuncio said.

Archbishop Udaigwe explained that a shepherd is called to walk ahead of the flock to show the way, among the flock to keep it united, and behind the flock to ensure that no one is left behind.

He also encouraged Abune Tesfaye to duc in altum – “put out into the deep” – without fear. Addressing the clergy and faithful, the Nuncio urged them to work closely with their new bishop.

He concluded his homily by thanking the Comboni family for offering one of its members to the Church for such a noble service.

A call to renewal and hope

In its message of gratitude and welcome, the Archeparchy of Addis Ababa invited the faithful to see the installation not simply as a ceremonial event, but as an opportunity for spiritual renewal:

“Let this installation and transfer of pastoral ministry be more than a ceremony. Let it be a renewal of our baptismal commitment. Let it be a moment when every Catholic asks: What is Christ asking of me now? Where is He sending me? Whom am I called to serve? … May the Catholic Church in Ethiopia continue her service with confidence: grateful for the past, attentive to the present, and courageous about the future.”

The celebration concluded at approximately 12:15 p.m. It was followed by a fraternal meal and cultural performances by various religious groups and participants. Gifts were also presented to the new Archeparch as a sign of welcome and support for his new pastoral mission.

Father Hippolyte Awoumessi Apedovi, MCCJ