ማህበረ ካህናት (Society of Priests)
Supporting the spiritual leadership of our church through fellowship, education, and mutual assistance among clergy.
12+
Clergy Members
Quarterly
Meetings
Regional
Network
About ማህበረ ካህናት (Society of Priests)
The Society of Priests (ማህበረ ካህናት) is a sacred fellowship that brings together Ethiopian Orthodox clergy serving in the UAE and broader Middle East region. This association provides spiritual support, continuing education, and collaborative ministry opportunities for our priests, deacons, and other church leaders.
Meeting Schedule
When: Quarterly gatherings
Time: Full day sessions
Location: Rotating host churches
Membership
Priests: Ordained clergy
Deacons: Ordained deacons
Candidates: Seminary students
Scope
Serving Ethiopian Orthodox communities across the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Activities & Responsibilities
Theological Education
Continuing education programs, theological discussions, and study of Orthodox doctrine and canon law.
Mutual Support
Providing spiritual, emotional, and practical support to clergy members and their families.
Liturgical Coordination
Standardizing liturgical practices and coordinating special services across regional churches.
Mentorship
Guiding new clergy and deacons in their ministry and spiritual development.
Society Leadership
Executive Council
- Chairman: Senior priest elected by members
- Vice Chairman: Assistant to chairman
- Secretary: Records and correspondence
- Treasurer: Financial oversight
Committees
- Education Committee: Theological training
- Liturgy Committee: Worship standards
- Welfare Committee: Member support
- Outreach Committee: Community relations
Programs & Initiatives
Continuing Education Program
Regular workshops and seminars on Orthodox theology, pastoral care, and contemporary ministry challenges.
Language Preservation
Promoting the use of Ge’ez in liturgy and supporting Amharic language education in the diaspora.
Pastoral Care Network
Coordinating pastoral visits, counseling services, and spiritual guidance across the region.
Diaspora Ministry
Developing strategies for serving Ethiopian Orthodox communities living abroad.
Preserving Orthodox Traditions
The Society of Priests plays a crucial role in maintaining the authenticity and continuity of Ethiopian Orthodox traditions in the diaspora. Our work includes:
Liturgical Preservation
Ensuring proper celebration of the Divine Liturgy and other sacraments according to Orthodox tradition.
Feast Day Coordination
Organizing proper celebration of major Orthodox feast days and fasting periods.
Sacred Music
Preserving traditional Ethiopian Orthodox chants and hymns in their authentic form.
Contact the Society
For matters related to clergy support, liturgical questions, or coordination with other Orthodox communities, please contact the Society of Priests through our church office.
Chairman: Available through church office
Meetings: Quarterly regional gatherings
Correspondence: Through parish priest