Our Faith

The Tigray Orthodox Tewahedo Church, one of the earliest Christian communities in the world, traces its origins to the evangelism of the Apostle Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch mentioned in the Book of Acts (Acts 8:26–39). The Church was formally established in the 4th century A.D. through the missionary efforts of St. Frumentius (Abba Selama, "Father of Peace"). Rooted in ancient tradition, the Tigray Orthodox Church has preserved the teachings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Apostles, and the Church Fathers faithfully for nearly two millennia.

We believe, worship, and live as the early Church did, upholding the true faith through sacred scripture, apostolic tradition, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Orthodox Creed, proclaimed during every Divine Liturgy, summarizes our unwavering beliefs and our hope in the promise of eternal life.

Christianity is not merely about knowledge of God but about entering a loving and transformative union with Him. This relationship is nurtured through the life of the Church worship, study, acts of service, fellowship, and sharing the Gospel.

If you’re seeking answers about the Tigray Orthodox Tewahedo faith, we encourage you to bring your questions. Our priests are always available to guide you, whether in person or by arranging a meeting. Please feel free to contact us here, and we will gladly connect you with someone to assist in your spiritual journey.

We welcome you to experience the fullness of the Orthodox faith and the vibrant life of the Tigray Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

The Five Pillars of Mystery Of Our Church

In the Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Five Pillars of Mystery (ሓሙሽተ አዕማደ ሚስጥራት) are foundational to understanding the divine truths that shape our faith. These five pillars encapsulate the core doctrines of the Christian faith, revealing the profound mysteries of God's plan for humanity. Rooted in Scripture and sacred tradition, each pillar highlights a key aspect of our relationship with God, guiding believers toward deeper communion with the Holy Trinity and the fulfillment of God's purpose in our lives.

The Five Pillars are not merely theological concepts but are essential for understanding the nature of salvation, the work of Jesus Christ, and the transformative power of God's grace. They serve as a spiritual compass, leading the faithful through the mysteries of faith, from the recognition of God's eternal nature to the hope of resurrection and eternal life. Through these pillars, the Orthodox Tewahedo Church offers a rich, holistic vision of God's work in the world and invites all to participate in the divine mysteries that bring salvation to every believer.

As we explore each of the Five Pillars of Mystery, we uncover the depth of God's love and His eternal plan for humanity. These teachings are not only the foundation of Orthodox Tewahedo theology but also the living experience of faith, expressed in worship, prayer, and the sacraments that nourish the spiritual journey of every Christian.

THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS

The Orthodox Tewahedo Church upholds Seven Sacraments (ምሥጢራተ ቤተ ክርስቲያን) as essential to the spiritual journey of believers. These sacred mysteries, instituted by Christ and the Apostles, are the primary means by which divine grace is imparted to the faithful. Through them, believers participate in the mystery of salvation, experiencing the transformative power of God’s presence in their lives. The sacraments are not merely symbolic but are deeply efficacious, offering spiritual renewal, healing, and sanctification.

Each sacrament serves a unique role in nurturing the faith and spiritual life of the individual. They guide believers through key moments of life, from birth to eternal rest, providing strength and grace for every stage of their journey. Whether it is the initiation into the faith, the strengthening of spiritual gifts, the forgiveness of sins, or the sanctification of life's vocations, the sacraments are vital for deepening one’s relationship with God and the Church.

These holy rites are celebrated within the context of the Church community, emphasizing the communal nature of salvation. They reflect the unity of the faithful as the body of Christ and their shared participation in His redemptive work. The sacraments are a profound expression of the Church’s mission to lead its members in holiness, guiding them toward eternal life in the Kingdom of God.