The Ethiopian Catholic Church has announced that it is experiencing challenges in carrying out spiritual activities because of the ongoing conflicts in the country.

The Ethiopian Catholic Church has declared its inability to conduct religious activities due to the persistent conflicts across different regions of the country. The church explained that as a consequence of the ongoing clashes, several parishes have been forced to cease operations.

This announcement was issued in a statement released yesterday, on December 22, 2024, subsequent to the conclusion of the 57th National Conference presided by the Archbishop over a four-day period in Mojo, started a week ago.

The church’s statement revealed the extensive damage inflicted upon the church’s establishments by the continuing conflicts within the nation. The message highlighted the destruction of clinics, schools, and pastoral centers. The church conveyed in its statement that its ministers have faced the challenge of conducting rituals under severe conditions, leading some to close their parishes and relocate due to the precarious threat to their presence.

The Catholic Church emphasized in its statement a grave concern over the humanitarian crisis spawned by the ongoing conflicts. It stated, “The devastation triggered by the conflicts, the displacement, and the ensuing damage is deeply heartbreaking.”

The Church has explained that it understands the daily damage and wounds caused to the people due to war, internal conflicts, and economic inflation in the country.

The Church stated that the economic turmoil in conflict-affected regions has led to families being separated, making it difficult for them to access religious services and spiritual support.

In a yesterday’s statement, the Church emphasized the importance of true leadership, which involves listening, seeking the truth, and working tirelessly for the common good.

The Church also called on religious, political leaders, economic experts, and society to prioritize dialogue, justice, and peace. The Church pleaded for reconciliation as a means to end the conflict, hatred, and division in the country.