Genna Eve is primarily centered around the and family , focusing on the anticipation of Christ's birth.
: If you are in Lalibela , the celebration is world-renowned. Clergy stand at the top of cliffs and at the base, singing hymns back and forth to represent angels and shepherds praising God.
: The day before Genna is a strict fast. Traditional observers abstain from all meat and dairy products, often eating only one light vegan meal late in the day. genna eve
: Younger generations often prepare for the Ye’gena Chewata , a traditional field hockey game played on Christmas Day. According to legend, the game was first played by shepherds on the night Jesus was born. Key Traditions Summary
: Wear a white Netela or Gabi to represent purity and traditional faith. Genna Eve is primarily centered around the and
: During the vigil, the faithful often hold thin wax candles ( Tuaf ) as they process around the church three times. Lalibela Genna or Chirstmas For Ethiopian ... - Facebook
: The core of Genna Eve is the overnight church service. It often begins late in the evening and continues until sunrise. Clergy and the faithful gather, many dressed in traditional white Netela (shash), to sing hymns and perform rhythmic dances with prayer sticks called Mequamia . : The day before Genna is a strict fast
: While the eve is for fasting, it is also when families prepare for the Christmas day feast. This includes slaughtering animals (like a sheep or chicken) and beginning the long process of making Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew) to be eaten after the morning liturgy.