Seven sacraments; unified initiation with baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist together
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church recognizes seven sacraments: Baptism (Tsemaqe), Chrismation (Qirban Zeyt), Eucharist (Qeddus Qurban), Penance (Nesuha), Holy Orders (Kihnanet), Matrimony (Qal Kidan), and Anointing of the Sick (Hayl Zeyt). Following ancient practice, the three sacraments of Christian initiation are administered together: a person is baptized (males on the 40th day after birth, females on the 80th day), immediately receives Chrismation, and then receives Holy Communion. This unified initiation reflects the ancient Apostolic practice.
The Ethiopian Divine Liturgy (Qeddase) is celebrated with extraordinary solemnity and length—typically lasting several hours—in the ancient Ge'ez language with congregational responses. Fourteen distinct Ethiopian anaphoras (Eucharistic prayers) exist in the tradition, including the anaphoras of the Apostles, St. John the Evangelist, Our Lord Jesus Christ, St. Athanasius, and others. Only priests and deacons who have fasted may celebrate the Qeddase. The Tabot—a consecrated altar stone inscribed with the name of a saint, serving as a replica of the Ark of the Covenant—is present in every Ethiopian church and is essential for the celebration of the Liturgy.
Key Distinctions
- Term used:
- mysteries (tabot)
- Sacrament count:
- seven principal, with additional rites
- Baptism mode:
- immersion
- Baptism recipients:
- infants (40 days boys, 80 days girls)
- Eucharist presence:
- real presence; Ge'ez liturgical tradition
Scripture References
Sources
- Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Constitution (2003)
- Ethiopian Qeddase (14 anaphoras)
- Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Canons and Regulations