Kottayam, Kerala | October 26, 2026
His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, Catholicos of the East and Malankara Metropolitan, has expressed profound sorrow and strongly condemned the brutal killing of Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Christians in the Arsi Zone of Oromia, Ethiopia, where approximately 45 faithful have reportedly lost their lives in recent violence.
In a letter addressed to His Holiness Abune Mathias I, Patriarch and Catholicos of Ethiopia, His Holiness conveyed the heartfelt condolences, prayers, and unwavering solidarity of the Holy Episcopal Synod, clergy, monastics, and faithful of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and the families affected by this tragedy.
His Holiness unequivocally condemned the violence, emphasizing that the taking of innocent human lives constitutes a grave offense against the sanctity of life, human dignity, religious freedom, and the fundamental principles of peaceful coexistence. The Catholicos expressed deep concern over the continued suffering and insecurity experienced by Christian communities in parts of Ethiopia and called for the protection of innocent civilians, the safeguarding of religious communities, and the restoration of peace and justice.
Highlighting the historic bonds of faith and fraternity between the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church and the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, His Holiness reaffirmed that the suffering of one member of the Body of Christ is shared by the entire Christian family.
The Catholicos assured Patriarch Abune Mathias that the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church stands prayerfully alongside the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in this time of mourning.
His Holiness further acknowledged the enduring Christian witness of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, whose ancient apostolic heritage and steadfast faith have remained a source of inspiration to Christians throughout the world.
The Catholicos offered fervent prayers for the eternal repose of those who lost their lives, divine consolation for the bereaved families, healing for the wounded, and strength for the communities affected by the violence. His Holiness also expressed hope that the responsible authorities would take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of vulnerable communities, uphold justice, and prevent further atrocities.
The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church joins the wider Oriental Orthodox family and Christians throughout the world in prayerful solidarity with the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, reaffirming its commitment to peace, reconciliation, religious freedom, and the protection of human dignity.
May the merciful Lord grant eternal rest to the departed, comfort to those who mourn, and lasting peace to the people of Ethiopia.