A practical guide to the principal feasts, saints, archangels, and sacred commemorations observed on each day of the Ethiopian Orthodox month.

The spiritual beauty and teaching within K. Haile Maskel’s Ethiopian Orthodox painting Artwork and spiritual teaching by K. Haile Maskel | Konjo Arts Timket – The Baptism of Our Lord, K. Haile Maskel, 2023. © K. Haile Maskel and Konjo Arts. One of the most compelling qualities of K. Haile Maskel’s art—and of Ethiopian Orthodox Christian iconography—is the way it makes invisible spiritual realities visible.. These paintings do not attempt to present biblical events like photog

How the Ethiopian calendar connects daily life, worship, and the living tradition of Ethiopian Orthodox iconography Ethiopia is often described as the Land of 13 Months of Sunshine. The phrase is widely associated with the country’s distinctive calendar, but its meaning can reach beyond the number of months in a year. Within Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition, the calendar does more than record the passing of time. It gives rhythm to worship, fasting, feasting, remembranc

How two Christian chronologies came to number the years differently The Ethiopian calendar is often described as seven or eight years “behind” the Gregorian calendar. However, it is not behind in the sense of being less advanced. It follows a different Christian chronology and therefore numbers the years from a different calculation of the Incarnation of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Both Ethiopian and Western Christian traditions date back years from the Incarnation of Christ, but

A sacred story from Ethiopian tradition, retold for all ages In the Ethiopian highlands, many years ago, there lived a holy man known for his gentleness and devotion to prayer, who attracted even wild animals to sit peacefully by his side. His name was Abba Samuel of Waldebba, and his life still inspires many with its serene strength, kindness, and profound faith. Who Was Abba Samuel? Abba Samuel lived many centuries ago and became a well-loved saint in the Ethiopian Orthodox

Honoring Abune Gebre Menfes Qidus Have you ever heard of a saint who lived with lions and leopards? Let us introduce you to Abune Gebre Menfes Qidus, whose name means “The Servant of the Holy Spirit” in the ancient Ethiopian language of Geʽez. His life is a powerful story of devotion, solitude, miraculous encounters—and a love so deep that even wild animals became peaceful in his presence. Who Was Abune Gebre Menfes Qidus? Abune Gebre Menfes Qidus (pronounced GEB-reh MEN-fes

Ethiopian design has shaped global fashion through centuries of artistry, tradition, and symbolism. This post explores how traditional textiles like the Habesha Kemis and Tibeb patterns have inspired designers worldwide—and how appropriation threatens the very communities that created them.

By Konjo Arts Ethiopian art is more than beauty—it's a profound expression of faith, heritage, and identity. Rooted in ancient...

We’re delighted to share the full recording of K. Haile Maskel’s recent presentation at the Sacred Arts Conference 2025 . This event was...

On May 11, 2025, artist and iconographer K. Haile Maskel presented at the Sacred Arts Conference , hosted by Oxford University and the...

Have you ever gazed at Ethiopian Christian icons and thought, “Wow, that’s beautiful”—and left it at that? If you’re simply appreciating the vibrant colors and tranquil expressions, you might be missing the deeper conversation these masterpieces are inviting you to join. The reality? These are not just paintings—they’re spiritual maps, cultural historians, and visual sermons all in one. Let’s uncover their hidden meanings and explore the remarkable language of Ethiopian Chri

We are thrilled to share the resounding success of our recent artistic odyssey, "The Missing Link - The Majesty of Ethiopian Spiritual Art," hosted at the venerable St. Mary le Bow Church from November 13th to 17th. Allow us to guide you through the enchanting highlights and heartfelt reflections from this unforgettable event. A Symphony of Colors and Culture with Haile Maskel Samuels: Curated by the esteemed UK artist and Iconographer, Haile Maskel Samuels, the exhibition un

Join us for a captivating journey into the world of ancient Ethiopian art at the exquisite exhibition, "The Missing Link - The Majesty of Ethiopian Spiritual Art," hosted by renowned UK artist and Iconographer, Haile Maskel Samuels. Held at the historic St. Mary le Bow Church from November 13th to 17th, 2023, this event promises to be a cultural experience like no other. Event Details: Date: November 13th - 17th, 2023 Venue: St. Mary le Bow Church, Cheapside, London EC2V 6AU