‘Modernism’ and the Ethiopian Orthodox Sunday School Movement: Indigenous Movements and their International Connections

RALPH LEE

doi:10.1017/s0022046921001391

Abstract

This article traces the history of twentieth-century Ethiopian Orthodox student movements formed in response to modernity, especially the influential Maḫbärä Qəddusan, ‘Association of Saints’, established in 1991 when Ethiopia's Communist regime fell. It explores parallels in Egyptian and Indian miaphysite Churches; balances the prevailing narrative of explosive Pentecostal growth which has obscured the influence of such movements; provides insight into networks that have stimulated renewal and responses to contemporary challenges through strong engagement with traditional literary and intellectual heritage; and explores training and publications promoting contemporary reflection on this heritage, the revival of important religious practices and the targeting of influential ecclesiastical and public positions.

Highlights

This article traces the history of twentieth-century Ethiopian Orthodox student movements formed in response to modernity, especially the influential Mahbärä Qəddusan, ‘Association of Saints’, established in when Ethiopia’s Communist regime fell
It explores parallels in Egyptian and Indian miaphysite Churches; balances the prevailing narrative of explosive Pentecostal growth which has obscured the influence of such movements; provides insight into networks that have stimulated renewal and responses to contemporary challenges through strong engagement with traditional literary and intellectual heritage; and explores training and publications promoting contemporary reflection on this heritage, the revival of important religious practices and the targeting of influential ecclesiastical and public positions
Western influence through colonial and Christian missionary activity from the nineteenth century onwards is widely discussed, but relatively less attention has been paid to this influence within the ancient miaphysite Christian communities in Africa, the Middle East and Asia

Summary

Introduction

This article traces the history of twentieth-century Ethiopian Orthodox student movements formed in response to modernity, especially the influential Mahbärä Qəddusan, ‘Association of Saints’, established in when Ethiopia’s Communist regime fell. Christian students together at various colleges and high schools, to foster deep commitment to Orthodox Christian spiritual life in the challenging modern environment, preserving the traditions of the Church, and to train leaders in a broad selection of academic disciplines to influence the academic world.

Results

Conclusion