Ethiopians celebrate Meskel holiday with pomp, despite recent fighting in Tigray
WELKITE, Ethiopia (AP) — Millions of Christians in Ethiopia celebrated Meskel, a religious holiday commemorating the discovery of the True Cross by Roman empress Helena in the 4th century, despite ongoing conflict in the northern Tigray region. Meskel, which also marks the end of the rainy season, is especially significant for the agrarian society as it signals the arrival of spring.
The holiday was marked by ceremonies and traditional rituals, including the lighting of a bonfire. However, the celebration coincided with renewed fighting in Tigray, causing concern among attendees who were worried about their family members still in the volatile region.
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