Baptism

            Literally, baptism means being rinsed in water. It is a spiritual means of cleansing one’s sin and being born into God’s kingdom as a Son/ daughter. Yet, Christ has been baptized though this definition of being born and cleansing a sin could never fit unto him.

            The Ethiopian church holds an annual commemoration of the baptism of Christ. Before delving in to the commemorative ceremony, it is good to have brief look at baptism.

            Baptism is one of the Sacraments of the church which every one  shall pass through if he has to be born again. This is in accordance with God’s  word which says one has to be baptized in the name of the Trinity if he has to win the heavenly kingdom.

            Christ the Lord has been baptized for different reasons. His baptism at Jordan has fulfilled prophecies. The river Jordan’s retreat was foretold by St. David. Ps.114:4.  God has also promised to cleanse us all by the pure water He would sprinkle up on us.

 Christ’s baptism sets a trend for mankind who is ordered to be baptized in the name of the Trinity if he has to be born again and win the fathers kingdom 

            The mystery of the Trinity was vividly manifested to us through baptism. As the word, Christ, is baptized, the Father has thanked Him and the Holy Ghost has descended in the image of a dove.

            The Ethiopian Orthodox  Church observes Christ’s baptism annually the eve of this  ceremony, called Ketera, is held on the 19th of   January. On the afternoon this day, Tabots are taken out of churches and go to baptismal pools. An overnight prayer is held at the pools. The blessed water will be sprinkled on the attending believers at dawn. The Tabots will start a return Journey after this sprinkling ceremony once Tabots are brought in to their respective holy of holies, the ceremony is over. 

Ketera

Ketera is the eve of the  baptismal holiday. Tabots/Ark/ leave their respective Churches and go to baptismal sites representing Christ is going to the River Jordan where he was baptized.

            The faithful and the clergy pass the night at the pool site attending various prayers meant to bless the water. At down, the blessed water would be sprinkled upon the attendants.  After this Tabots/Ark/ start return journey’s.

Praise be to God. Amen!!