The highest governing body of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church has taken a strong stance against Tigrayan clergy involved in the appointment of six bishops, leading to condemnation and ex-communication. This incident highlights an escalating division within the church concerning its response to the Tigray civil war, which concluded in November after two years of conflict.

During a ceremony at St Mary's Church in Aksum, the Tigray Orthodox Tewahedo Church ordained six bishops, prompting the Ethiopia Holy Synod to revoke their priestly authority. The synod declared that these bishops should be referred to by their secular names and denied any spiritual services both in their lifetime and after their death.

The synod deemed the appointment of these bishops as illegal and a violation of religious principles and laws, emphasizing that the decision has significant consequences. It has led to divisions within the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, conflicts among believers, and disturbances in the peace.

In response, the Tigray bishops have rejected the Ethiopian Synod's decision, considering it futile condemnation and unacceptable. The synod, however, has extended an offer for reconciliation, stating that the Tigray priests could be welcomed back if they repent and apologize for the violation of the canon.

The tensions between the Tigrayan clergy and the Ethiopian Synod began earlier when the Tigrayan bishops announced their intention to establish their own church, expressing dissatisfaction with the synod's failure to condemn the fighting and provide adequate support to the faithful during the civil war.

While the church leadership issued an apology to the people of Tigray regarding the civil war, it seems that the apology has not been sufficient to mend the rift, leading to this latest episode of condemnation and ex-communication.