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As a vital part of the peace-building efforts in Ethiopia, Aregawi helped lead ecumenical efforts in that nation and beyond. He served as head of the foreign relations department of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
“It was painful to learn of Archbishop Abune Melese Aregawi’s death,” said WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, who extended his deepest condolences on behalf of the global fellowship, particularly to Archbishop Aregawi’s family.
“Archbishop Aregawi was a great ecumenist who served and contributed immensely to the ecumenical work at different levels of his engagement, a great administrator, and an advocate for justice and peace for all humanity,” said Pillay.
Aregawi served on the WCC central committee from 2013-22. “He was a special gift to the ecumenical movement,” said Pillay. “Archbishop Aregawi was a father to many, humble, a lover of peace, and was committed to ensuring that justice, peace, and reconciliation are restored to Ethiopia.”
Those who had the honour and pleasure of working with him are feeling the effects of his loss already, Pillay added. “It is my prayer that his aspirations for justice, peace, reconciliation and unity for which he laboured during his earthly pilgrimage will soon be achieved for the people of Ethiopia.”
