Who Are the Ethiopian Catholic Saints?
The Ethiopian Catholic Church stands as one of the most ancient and visually striking Christian traditions in the world. Rooted in the same soil that gave us the Queen of Sheba and the story of the Ethiopian eunuch baptized by Philip in the Book of Acts, this Church reflects a faith that has been alive for nearly two millennia.
Though in communion with Rome, the Ethiopian Catholic Church retains the same liturgy, spirituality, and ancient Ge’ez language used by the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. Its saints and traditions reveal a deep love for Scripture, prayer, fasting, and service — all centered on the mystery of Christ’s incarnation.
Among its most beloved saints is Saint Tekle Haymanot, one of Ethiopia’s greatest monastic figures. Known for his deep prayer and miraculous life, he is often depicted standing on one leg — a symbol of his lifelong devotion and unshakable endurance. His story inspires generations of Ethiopians to seek holiness not in comfort, but in faithfulness.
Another revered figure is Saint Frumentius, the apostle of Ethiopia, who brought Christianity to the Aksumite kingdom in the 4th century. Appointed the first bishop of Ethiopia by Saint Athanasius of Alexandria, he established the Ethiopian Church as one of the earliest Christian communities in Africa. His courage and missionary zeal remind the faithful that the Gospel truly belongs to all nations.
The Ethiopian Catholic Church also honors countless monks, hermits, and martyrs whose names are known only to God. Their lives of simplicity, fasting, and prayer created a spiritual foundation that continues to shape Ethiopian Christianity today.
At The Eastern Church, our Ethiopian and Eastern Catholic Prayer Cards Collection celebrates this profound heritage. Each handmade card is prayerfully designed and printed in Austin, Texas, carrying forward the ancient devotion of Africa’s oldest Christian tradition.
The saints of the Ethiopian Catholic Church remind us that holiness transcends culture and language. Their songs, written in Ge’ez, echo the same praises heard in heaven: a worship that unites Africa and the whole Church in the glory of God.
Explore our Ethiopian Catholic Prayer Cards to discover these saints and to share the ancient beauty of Ethiopian faith with your home or parish.
