Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church in Germany and its surroundings Diocese in Poland, Saint Gabriel's Church, See of Warsaw
Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church in Germany and its surroundings Diocese in Poland, Saint Gabriel's Church, See of Warsaw
About Our Church
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church holds a venerable position as one of the earliest Christian churches, tracing its roots back to less than a year from the ascension of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as documented in the Book of Acts 8:26-38. The church became the official state religion in the 4th century and the synod convened in 328.
With its faith deeply rooted in Apostolic heritage, attested in both the New and Old Testaments, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church aligns itself with the Oriental Orthodox family of Churches, sharing a common faith with them.
In Poland, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church commenced its formal and official spiritual endeavors four years ago, precisely in 2020. The catalyst for this establishment was the increasing influx of young Ethiopian believers arriving in Poland for educational and professional pursuits. Initial church gatherings were held informally for two years due to the challenges in securing a suitable meeting place. However, since the end of 2022, with the gracious permission and support of His Beatitude Sawa, Archbishop of Warsaw and Metropolitan of All Poland, we were able to find a home at the Orthodox Parish of St. Sofia - Wisdom of God, located at 568 Pulawska St. in Warsaw.
In March 2023, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Poland formally commenced its services with the presence, blessing, and permission of His Holiness Archbishop Dionasios, the Archbishop of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church of East Gojjam and Germany and the surrounding regions. The church, named after the Archangel Saint Gabriel, has since been actively conducting monthly holy masses, additional monthly chalice services, hymn chanting, worship sessions, and educational programs. The church actively celebrates the festivals of saints, organizes pilgrimages, and despite the predominant student demographic, boasts a membership of hundreds.Currently, the church is in the process of formal registration in Poland, seeking certification and recognition from the Polish government. Concurrently, efforts are underway to acquire a permanent church property in Warsaw, marking a significant step towards establishing a lasting presence for the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Poland.
