Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia

Message of Condolences
November 2026

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia (CBCE) has learned with profound sorrow and deep concern, through communications from the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and the Inter-Religious Council (IRC), about the tragic killing of faithful Christians and the destruction of property that occurred in Merti and Shirka areas of Arsi Zone, South-East Oromia Region, during the month of October 2026.

We also wish to express our deep sorrow over additional conflicts and killings of innocent people that have taken place in the Wollega and Moyale areas.

The Ethiopian Catholic Church expresses its deep sadness that such acts continue to occur repeatedly and strongly condemns these inhumane actions.
The Ethiopian Catholic Church calls upon the government to undertake the necessary law enforcement measures to ensure the peace and security of its citizens.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia, while calling for prayers for the eternal repose of our brothers and sisters who lost their lives in this deeply tragic incident, extends its heartfelt condolences to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, to all Ethiopians, and to the bereaved families.
We sincerely pray that the Almighty may grant us true consolation and comfort.

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia