Ethiopian Catholic Bishops Conclude 59th Ordinary General Assembly in Emdeber

The Ethiopian Catholic Bishops’ Conference successfully concluded its 59th Ordinary General Assembly, held from December 8-12, 2025, at the Eparchy of the Emdeber.

Church leaders described the Assembly as a highly productive gathering, marked by deep discussions on key ecclesiastical matters under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The presence of newly appointed bishops was highlighted as a strengthening factor for the Conference, enabling the filling of previously vacant leadership positions and enhancing collaborative capacity.

During the Assembly, several structural decisions were formalized. His Eminence Cardinal Abune Berhaneyesus was confirmed as President of the Conference. His Excellency Abune Markos, Bishop of the Jimma–Bonga Diocese, was appointed Vice President, while His Excellency Abune Lukas, Bishop of the Emdeber Diocese, was named Permanent Secretary. Bishops also approved measures to reinforce the Conference’s Permanent Commission to support ongoing work.

The Assembly reviewed more than ten commissions overseen by member bishops. These commissions received new leadership appointments, and changes were approved to commission names and mandates as part of broader organizational strengthening. Bishops also decided to revise the Conference’s regulations, originally drafted in 2014, and to forward the amended statutes to the Holy See for review and approval.

Addressing the press, His Excellency Abune Lisane Christos, Bishop of the Eparchy of Bahir Dar–Dessie and representative of the Social Communication Commission, called the Assembly a historic and spiritually guided event that affirmed ecclesial solidarity. He emphasized comprehensive discussions on pastoral conditions across all dioceses, with particular attention to the situation in the Eparchy of Adigrat, and outlined pathways for ongoing support and unity among local churches.

Church institutions were also featured on the Assembly agenda. Bishops discussed developments at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic University, a major educational institution of the Ethiopian Catholic Church. The gathering further acknowledged the celebration of the 25th anniversary of St. Luke’s Catholic Hospital in Woliso, a key health care institution serving local communities.

A central theme of the Assembly was the importance of peace for national development. Bishops reiterated that peace is fundamental to the sustainable progress of the country and its citizens, and called on all sectors of society to prioritize reconciliation and harmony as Ethiopia advances.

The Assembly also underscored the unique identity of the Ethiopian Catholic Church, which celebrates both Eastern and Western liturgical traditions. Bishops affirmed that, through prayerful dialogue, the Church has strengthened its unity and encouraged parishes, clergy, religious, catechists, and the faithful to walk together in hope and communion as the Church prepares for its ongoing Synodal journey.