Ethiopia: Inviting Religious, Cultural Rite

Of the numerous ancient cultural and religious festivities, Demera, a bonfire, is one of the predominant one in Ethiopia, followed by Maskel---an annual religious holiday commemorating the finding of the True Cross. This Demera-procession takes place in the early evening the day before Maskel or on the day itself, as per the respective local traditions. The firewood is decorated with daisies prior to the celebration. Afterwards, charcoal from the remains of the fire is collected and used by the faithful to mark their foreheads with the shape of a cross. The torchbearers chant as they circle the pyre, the Demera, (a pile of wooden torches), which are covered with cloth until a priest blesses it. The torchbearers then hurl their flames into the midst of the Demeras, while the gathering watches the blaze light up the night sky.

The following day Maskel, which is an ancient seasonal rite and has become an integral part of the Ethiopian festivities is celebrated. This national holiday is one of the most important annual festivals and has been celebrated throughout Ethiopia for centuries. In mid afternoon, the celebrations start. Many are seen wearing their brilliant white Ethiopian costumes. A colour procession of priests, deacons and choir boys and girls of Sunday Schools wearing embroidered robes walk around a huge pyre, bearing ceremonial crosses and wooden torches decorated with olive leaves.

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