On Saturday evening in Ethiopia, the Orthodox Christian community celebrated Meskel, a religious festival that commemorates the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine. The event took place in Addis Ababa, where thousands of people gathered in the large square of the same name. Participants sang traditional religious songs and participated in a large bonfire, a central element of the celebration. The festival is one of the most important in the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar and is marked by processions, prayers, and communal feasting. The celebration occurred against a backdrop of renewed tensions in northern Ethiopia, where conflict has been ongoing for several years. The resumption of hostilities has raised concerns about the safety of civilians and the stability of the region. Despite these challenges, the Meskel festival provided a moment of unity and spiritual reflection for many Ethiopians. The festival, which is also known as the Feast of the Cross, is celebrated across Ethiopia and among Ethiopian Orthodox communities abroad. It is often accompanied by the lighting of a large, symbolic fire, representing the light of Christ. This fire is believed to have been lit by Saint Helena during her search for the True Cross. While the celebration brought people together in a time of uncertainty, it also highlighted the resilience of the Ethiopian people in the face of ongoing conflict. The Meskel festival remains a powerful reminder of faith, heritage, and community, even amid difficult circumstances.