History:

dates back to the late 16th century when it was first built by the then-ruler of Ethiopia, Emperor Menelik II. The church is located on the Entoto Mountain, near the modern day capital Addis Ababa. The original name of the church was Menbere Kedest, meaning ‘house of the Almighty’. In its initial stages, only the Royal family members, nobles and the common people were permitted inside the church and it was kept as a place of exclusive worship for the ruling royal families. The church was later remodeled and renovated by the late Patriarch, Abuna Mahari Kedusan, who gave it the name Menbere Patriarch Kedeste Kedusan St. Mary Church. To this day, the church is known for its unique and grandeur architecture. The church follows a unique Christian religious practice known as the Ge’ez Rite, which consists of traditional Ethiopian Orthodox liturgies preached and conducted in Ge’ez language. The Ge'ez Rite is an ancient practice which was near extinction when exposed by missionaries in the 1950s and revived by the late Patriarch. Menbere Patriarch Kedeste Kedusan St. Mary Church is the center of devotion for thousands of Ethiopian Orthodox believers who come from different corners of the country to attend the religious festivals held here. The church also plays an integral part in Ethiopian history, and its architecture is a symbol of Ethiopia’s rich culture and heritage. It is one of the best churches in Ethiopia which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Menbere Patriarch Kedeste Kedusan St. Mary Church is located in Nolekabir, a small village in Northern Ethiopia. 2. The Church was founded in the fourteenth century and is an important example of the Ethiopian Christian tradition. 3. The Church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is believed to be the birthplace of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. 4. The Church was extensively renovated in the late nineteenth century and is a cultural heritage site listed by Ethiopia's Ministry of Culture and Tourism. 5. The Church is a center of local religious life and is home to an annual festival in celebration of the Virgin Mary. 6. The Church is also home to a number of traditional Christian objects and artifacts, including a number of ancient crosses and manuscripts. Here are some facts about the Ethiopia Church.These facts will help you understand why it is on the list of the best churches in Ethiopia

Services:

1. Worship services: Menbere Patriarch Kedeste Kedusan St. Mary Church in Ethiopia offers weekly worship services which include Bible readings, prayer services, music, and sermons. 2. Bible studies: The church conducts Bible studies for individuals or groups who wish to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Bible. 3. Education: The church supports education by providing scholarships for members and others in the community who wish to pursue higher education. 4. Community service: The church is committed to serving the local Ethiopian community in various ways. This includes providing meals for families in need, organizing medical clinics, hosting clothing drives, and participating in community outreach activities. 5. Leadership development: The church provides opportunities for members to receive training in leadership and form new networks for development. 6. Social activities: The church organizes social activities that involve members of different ages interacting and learning from each other. These activities include music and dance performances, sports events, outdoor adventures, and more. 7. Cultural preservation: The church seeks to preserve and share the Ethiopian culture by providing resources to those interested in learning more about it. The church also organizes educational events highlighting the culture and works with local organizations to promote understanding and appreciation of the culture. 8. Outreach: The church seeks to reach out to its members and the community at large by engaging in activities such as visiting prisons and hospitals, street preaching, and organizing mission trips. 9. Support: The church provides emotional and spiritual support as well as material assistance to those in need. This beautiful church in Ethiopia has made a lot of significance in the past.