Meskel: The Feast of the Finding of the True Cross

Meskel, meaning “cross” in Ge’ez, is one of the most profound and cherished celebrations in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, regarded as a major feast. Also known as the “Feast of the Finding of the Holy Cross,” it is celebrated with Demera, the ceremonial burning of a large bonfire, symbolizing faith, light, renewal, and divine guidance.

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is observed every year in September, commemorating three pivotal events:

1. The discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena (326 AD) during her pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
2. The dedication of churches built by Emperor Constantine on the Holy Sepulchre and Mount Calvary, sanctifying these sacred sites.
3. The elevation of the True Cross at Hagia Sophia in Constantinople (AD 629) by Byzantine Emperor Heraclius, after it had been temporarily taken by the Persian Empire.

Within Ethiopian Orthodox tradition, the crucifixion of Christ is central not only as a historical event but as a spiritual reality. The Synaxarion, read during Meskel, recounts the finding of the True Cross and its miracles, emphasizing faith, devotion, and the Church’s role in guiding believers toward righteousness.

Christ’s crucifixion is understood as a sacrificial act for humanity’s sins, teaching us to live ethically, with compassion and humility. Scripture emphasizes this:

“He was crucified as the ultimate, blameless sacrifice. He died as the Lamb of God, the atonement for all mankind. He bore the punishment of all our sins and died, the just for the unjust.” - Romans 5:10; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18

“Not only did He die a physical death, but He even experienced separation from God while He was hanging on the cross. Through this sacrifice, all who believe in Him obtain forgiveness.” — Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34

Meskel teaches surrender, forgiveness, vigilance, and love, reflecting the Ethiopian Orthodox emphasis on Deber Berhan (Way of Light), Tesfaye (Hope), and Selam (Peace). The faithful are called to follow the cross daily:

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23

Meskel Rituals Tomorrow

On the day of Meskel, Ethiopian Orthodox Christians participate in a series of meaningful rituals:

1. Morning Prayers and Church Services: The day begins with early morning liturgy, prayers, and the reading of the Synaxarion, recounting Queen Helena’s discovery of the True Cross and emphasizing faith and repentance. Monastic communities often chant hymns like “Tezeta” and “Mekdes”, praising God and the cross.

2. Procession of Chebo (Bonfire Wood): Large bundles of chebo are gathered and blessed with frankincense. Parishioners carry the chebo in processions around their homes, neighborhoods, or church courtyards, chanting, singing gospel hymns, and offering prayers.

3. Lighting the Demera Bonfire: The chebo is lit to form a towering bonfire. The rising smoke is carefully observed, reenacting Queen Helena’s vision that revealed the location of the True Cross.

4. Ash Collection and Blessing: Ash from the fire is collected and used to mark foreheads in the shape of a cross. This ritual symbolizes purification, spiritual healing, protection, and a renewal of faith.

5. Community Feasting and Celebration: After the spiritual ceremonies, families and communities gather for traditional meals, music, and dance. The festive atmosphere honors both the cross and community unity, blending ritual with cultural celebration.

6. Reflection and Acts of Charity: Many faithful use this day to meditate on the virtues of the cross—surrender, forgiveness, love, and humility—and extend generosity and compassion to those in need.

Meskel is especially meaningful in Ethiopia because it is believed that a fragment of the True Cross was brought from Egypt and preserved at Amba Geshen, a site shaped like a cross. The day’s rituals connect believers to history, faith, and communal life, fostering spiritual cleansing and inner transformation.

Beyond tradition, Meskel reminds us to release anger, fear, doubt, and negativity, embracing love, forgiveness, and self-worth. The celebration invites us to live with peace, compassion, and joy, extending these virtues to family, community, and society.

May we all take up our cross, to surrender in light, hope & peace to God, so as love within can teach us to live in spirit, as we navigate this sinful world that we all share.

Enkuan Le Birhane Meskel Beselam Aderesachu!

By Dutches @deldeyoch