Ethiopian Orthodox Christians have held nationwide Timket (Epiphany) celebrations commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan, with processions, prayers and water rites drawing large crowds.

In Batu, a town in Ethiopia’s Oromia region on the shores of Lake Dambal, priests from local churches escorted tabots replicas symbolising the Ark of the Covenant and revered in Ethiopian Orthodox tradition towards the water as worshippers gathered to watch.

Participants accompanied the procession with drums, chanting and spiritual songs, while church processional items, including crucifixes, were carried as part of the ceremonies.

After tabots were brought together, clergy led prayers before crowds observed the service, in scenes that included colourful ceremonial dress and umbrellas commonly associated with Timket processions.

In the capital, Addis Ababa, a priest led a symbolic baptism ceremony for worshippers as part of the observances. Timket is widely regarded as one of the most significant dates on the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar.

Source: BBC