The killings committed against innocent believers (faithful / parishioners), the displacement of people, as well as the complete destruction by fire of the Tselata Chefa St. Gabriel Church—which has stood for over a century—and the looting of the Medhane Alem (Savior of the World) Church, occurring since May 31, 2026 (Ginbot 23, 2018 E.C.) in the Tseko and Shirka districts (woredas) of the East Arsi Diocese, have plunged our Church into deep mourning (grief).
The repeated occurrence of similar security problems in the area and the subjection of innocent citizens, mothers, and children to severe mistreatment (hardship / harassment) and displacement (exile) is a matter that must be corrected and has deeply concerned us all.
Therefore, we urgently call upon (remind / urge) the government and security forces to immediately fulfill their responsibility to maintain law and order and to protect the safety of citizens. We firmly demand that those involved in the attack be brought to justice, that the necessary support and rehabilitation (resettlement) be provided to our displaced and sheltered compatriots, and that reliable protection be ensured for the churches and the believers.
We pray that God grants comfort (solace) to all the families of the deceased and displaced believers who are going through this difficult trial. May the Lord God grant comfort to those who are affected (harmed / injured); may He protect our country and our Orthodox Church.
Abba Gerima
Bishop of the Gedeo, Kore, and Burji Diocese, and Member of the Holy Synod
