Hundreds of thousands of Orthodox Christians marched through Ethiopian cities and towns in preparation for Timket, or Epiphany, which commemorates Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan.
On the procession, each church carried its Tabot, a model of the Ark of the Covenant.
The parade to the river is led by the most senior priest of each church, who wear religious robes and carry crucifixes and umbrellas.
Spiritual singers and worshippers accompany them.
On Thursday, priests will sprinkle holy water on the participants, reenacting Jesus’ baptism.
Timket has traditionally been seen as a meeting place for young singles looking for a partner.
“Let a dress not intended for Timket be shredded,” a local proverb says.
Some photos from the celebration were tweeted by a state-linked broadcaster:
📷Timket/Ketera, #Ethiopian Epiphany celebration vibes in #AddisAbaba pic.twitter.com/N7lucS15x1
— FBC (Fana Broadcasting Corporate S.C.) (@fanatelevision) January 18, 2023
