Followers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church, also known as in the outside world as Ethiopian Church, celebrated Timkat (Epiphany) across the country.
Timkat (also known as Timket) is an Orthodox Christian celebration of the Ethiopian Epiphany. It marks the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.
In Addis Ababa, the two patriarchs of Ethiopia, Abune Merkorios and Abune Mathias, let the religious ritual at Janmeda, where the holiday is celebrated.
Pilgrims come from far and wide to take part in the festival and witness the re-enactment of the baptism. All over the country large crowds assemble as the religious festivities commence, with spectacular processions, song, dance and prayer.
The festival lasts for three days and is at its most colourful in the capital, Addis Ababa, where everyone gets involved in the celebrations.
Patriarch of Indian Orthodox Church,Baselios Mar Thoma Paulose II, conveyed his holiday greetings for the followers of Ethiopian Church.
Addis Ababa police commission has disclosed that Ketera and Timkat celebrations went well with no security incident.
Timkat Celebration draw millions of people including Ethiopians who are not followers of the Ethiopian Churches. It is also an important tourist attraction for Ethiopia generating millions of dollars in revenue.
Government officials, dignitaries and diplomats have attended the holiday celebration at Janmeda.
Followers of Ethiopian Catholic Church have also celebrated Timkat in accordance with catholic religious traditions in the capital Addis Ababa.
