Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo and Catholic Church faithful observed the second day of Semune Hmamat, the final week of Abiy Tsom. Believers marked it with fasting, prayers, and church services. The week commemorates Jesus Christ's suffering and death.
In Addis Ababa on Megabit 29, 2018 (EC), Semune Hmamat week entered its second day. Faithful of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and Ethiopian Catholic Church observed it through fasting, prayer, and attending services.
"Semun" denotes standing, while "Hmamat," derived from the Ge'ez word "Hama," signifies steadfastness with patience. Church evangelists explain that the combination recalls Jesus Christ's suffering and death. It also draws from the Old Testament era, from Adam's creation to Jesus' birth in Bethlehem.
Prophet Isaiah states, "All our righteous acts are like filthy rags" (Isa 64:6) and "Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering" (Isa 53:4). Believers see this week as a time for sanctification and gaining spiritual wealth through prayer, fasting, and devotion.