The sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the Ethiopian landscape. In the quiet town of Fitche, nestled amidst the rolling hills of northern Shewa, a story unfolds, a story of unwavering faith, unwavering love, and unwavering defiance. It is the story of Abune Petros, Bishop of Wollo, a man whose life became a testament to the enduring human spirit.
Born into a humble peasant family, Abune Petros, then known as Abba Haile Mariam, felt the call to a life of devotion early on. His dedication resonated, and he embarked on the path of monasticism, his spirit yearning for a deeper connection with the divine. This devotion bore fruit, and he found himself among the first four Ethiopians chosen for the sacred office of Bishop within the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, a landmark achievement that shattered existing barriers and ushered in a new era of empowerment for native Ethiopians within the faith.
However, the winds of change were brewing. In 1936, the dark cloud of fascist Italy’s invasion descended upon Ethiopia, threatening the nation’s very fabric. While many chose the path of submission or retreated into the shadows, Abune Petros emerged as a beacon of resistance. His faith, a burning flame within him, refused to be extinguished by the encroaching darkness.
His voice resonated across the land, urging his people to rise above fear and fight for their freedom and dignity. He joined forces with other patriots like Dejazmatch Wondwossen and Ras Abebe, his presence on the battlefield a potent symbol of hope and defiance. Even the confines of captivity could not dampen his spirit. Faced with the allure of comfort and safety offered in exchange for his allegiance, Abune Petros remained resolute. His unwavering loyalty to Emperor Haile Selassie I and the Ethiopian flag stood as an impenetrable fortress against the pressures of the occupiers.
On July 29, 1936, facing a firing squad, Abune Petros stood tall, his gaze unwavering. His final act wasn’t one of fear or desperation, but a powerful display of courage and conviction. He uttered a powerful anathema, a curse against the atrocities of the invaders and a rallying cry for his people to never surrender their freedom.
His life, a testament to the unwavering power of faith, love, and courage, continues to inspire generations. Abune Petros, the Bishop of Wollo, may be gone, but the flame he ignited burns brighter than ever, a beacon guiding us towards a future illuminated by hope, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the principles we hold dear. As we remember his sacrifice, may we find the strength to carry his torch forward, illuminating the path towards a brighter future for generations to come.
Leave A Comment