EOTC History
A concise presentation of the historical and devotional topics listed by GTHBA for the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
A people and a place of worship
The current GTHBA history page explains “church” in two related senses. First, it is the community of believers who are baptized and belong to Christ. Second, it is the sacred place where the faithful gather to worship God.
Old Testament examples such as Noah’s Ark, Abraham’s tent, the Tabernacle, and Solomon’s Temple are presented as forerunners of places where worship and offerings were made. In the New Testament, Christ is described as the head and foundation of the Church, which the Fathers confess as one, holy, universal, and apostolic.
Areas of Orthodox life and teaching
Scripture and living tradition
The GTHBA page lists Scripture, worship, fasting, prayer, the Cross, sacred tradition, vestments, Marian devotion, and honor for the saints as important areas for continued teaching and study.
Read the beliefs overview
Saint Tekle Haymanot
Saint Tekle Haymanot (Takla Haymanot, “Plant of Faith”), c. 1215–1313, is remembered as an Ethiopian monk and founder of a major monastic community. He is venerated in the Ethiopian and Coptic Orthodox traditions.
His feast is observed on August 17, and the 24th day of each Ethiopian-calendar month is traditionally dedicated to his remembrance.