Message of Condolence

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia
October 2, 2025

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia is deeply grieved to learn of the tragic collapse of the wooden scaffolding at Ararti Debre Genet St. Mary’s Church in Minjar Shenkor, North Shewa Diocese, during its construction. This disaster has caused the loss of many lives and left many others injured.

On behalf of the Catholic Church, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, especially the clergy and faithful of Ararti Debre Genet St. Mary’s Church, and to the families who have lost their loved ones. We share in your sorrow and unite with you in prayer during this time of grief.

May God grant eternal rest to the departed, healing to the injured, and strength and comfort to all who mourn this great loss.

With deepest sympathy and prayers,

Cardinal Berhaneyesus D. Souraphiel CM, Metropolitan Catholic Archbishop of Addis Abeba, President of CBCE & Chancellor of ECU