The Eritrean and Ethiopian community in Malta recently celebrated Holy Week and Easter with the traditional night vigil on May 4 at St James church, Valletta.

The ceremony lasted throughout the night until 11am last Sunday, with a service that consisted of readings from the Holy Bible, traditional religious chants, Holy Communion and the Adoration of the Holy Cross.

Most Eritreans and Ethiopians belong to the East African Orthodox denomination and every Sunday, from 8am onwards, they gather at the church for Sunday service, which lasts three hours.

“We fast for 40 days, during which we do not consume meat and do a lot of soul searching”, said a community member, who has been granted international protection and is currently adapting to Malta, having only been released from detention three months ago.

“Our faith keeps us alive, having been subject to so much distress and difficulties back home,” he added.

During Holy Week, there are various other activities meant to foster a greater sense of penance. Good Friday, which took place on May 3, was commemorated throughout the day, and the feast of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from death is celebrated with much deepness, reverence and fervour among Eritreans and Ethiopians.

Around 400 faithful gathered at St James and the vigil concluded with the traditional Easter meal held at the church annexe.