From Vaticannews · Vatican News · · 1m 30s
A new shepherd for Addis Ababa
After nearly 27 years, Cardinal Berhaneyesus hands the Archdiocese of Addis Ababa to a Comboni missionary who once led his order worldwide.
In brief
After nearly 27 years, Cardinal Berhaneyesus hands the Archdiocese of Addis Ababa to a Comboni missionary who once led his order worldwide. Church succession is staged as a handover, not a coronation: the old shepherd passes the staff, then kneels beside the new one. Originally reported by Vaticannews.
Three knocks at the door
On September 6, 2026, Archbishop Tesfaye Tadesse Gebresilasie knocked three times on the door of Nativity Catholic Cathedral in Addis Ababa. The knocks stood for the Trinity and opened his ministry.
A letter from Pope Leo XIV
The Holy See's representative read out the papal letter naming him Archbishop, carrying a message of communion, gratitude and encouragement from Rome.
Lead like the Good Shepherd
Archbishop Brian Udaigwe, Apostolic Nuncio to Ethiopia, preached that the new Archbishop should lead with love, humility and the power of the Cross.
The staff changes hands
Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel handed over the vestments and shepherd's staff, then seated his successor in the Archbishop's See. He had held the post for nearly 27 years.
A missionary who led worldwide
Tesfaselassie is a Comboni Missionary who served the Church at national and international level, rising to Superior General of the Comboni Missionaries across the world.
Both men on their knees
At the close, the outgoing and incoming Archbishops knelt together at the altar and asked the faithful to pray for them. Authority set aside, service in front.
“a ministry rooted not in authority or privilege, but in humble service”
The takeaway
Church succession is staged as a handover, not a coronation: the old shepherd passes the staff, then kneels beside the new one.
