By Habtamu Abrdew Beture
The Friary of St. Francis organized a one-day workshop on Saturday Feb. 29, 2020 at the multipurpose hall of the Capuchin Franciscan Institute of Philosophy and Theology as part of the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the Friary.
The workshop was opened by the benedictions of His Eminence Cardinal Berhaneyesus the Catholic Archbishop of Addis Ababa and the President of the Ethiopian Catholic Bishop’s Conference.
During the workshop, various Church scholars made historical presentations of the services of the Capuchin Friary and their impact on the society.
His Eminence Cardinal Berhaneyesus Catholic Archbishop of Ethiopia and President of the Ethiopian Catholic Bishops’ Conference opened the year the Golden jubilee last year on the annual feast day of St. Francis.
The motto of the jubilee year “Rebuild My House”, is taken from the call of Saint Francis as requested him by God during his prayers at the foot of the Crucifix. Thus, it reminds the Church of the call to constant renewal their spiritual journey as individuals, as a Franciscan family, but also as parishioners of St. Francis Parish and followers of Franciscan Spirituality.
The Friary of St. Francis in Addis Ababa, was founded in 1970. It embraces the Capuchin Franciscan Institute of Philosophy and Theology, St. Francis Parish, St. Francis Social Center and Capuchin Francis Retreat and Research Center.
During an interview, Reverend Abba Hailegabriel Meleku OFM Cap. explained that in collaboration with the Ethiopian Catholic Secretariat Communications Department, the Friary is implementing different projects concerning environmental conservation.
He further elaborated that the Capuchin Friary plans to plant 50,000 seedling of trees inside the premises of their Friary and that they will ensure good care for them to grow fully.
The same is expected at their parish, schools and service centers in the entire country.
He also added that in places called ‘Kofele’ they are distributing seedlings to the society after training them on how to plant and take a good care of the plants till they grow.
Reverend Abba Haile Gabriel Meleku said the Friary will celebrate its Golden Jubilee throughout the year 2020 by organizing different gatherings and programs such as workshops, peace and justice programs, and youth festivals.