With the largest Orthodox congregation outside Europe, they observe a 55-day fast leading up to Easter, refraining from meat and animal-derived foods.

On the eve of the nation's most revered religious festival, adherents adorned in customary white garments participate in late-night church ceremonies that extend into the early morning hours.

In Addis Ababa, at Kidus Gebreil Church, clergy, assistants, and devotees commemorated the occasion collectively on Sunday.

"We are celebrating the date our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ rose from the dead. When we say this, we are witnessing the resurrection of Jesus Christ in this service and emphasising that just as He rose from death, we believers will also rise,” said the head of the church, Megabi Hadis Leake Mariam.

Throughout the Easter season, relatives and friends journey long distances to reunite with their loved ones.

While many Western churches celebrate Easter on March 31st, Eastern Orthodox churches adhere to the older Julian calendar, universally commemorating the holiday on Sunday.