Abuna
From Freepedia
Abuna is the title of the metropolitan bishop or head of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. Historically the Abuna was selected by the Coptic Orthodox Patriarch of Alexandria, who was the leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church and also had diocesian authority over Ethiopia and other parts of Africa, who would appoint one of his monks to this post. As a result, a number of years might pass between successors, and due to a lack of knowledge of the native languages the Abuna had a minimal influence on both Ethiopian religion and politics.
Visitors to Ethiopia at this time, such as Francisco Alvarez in the 16th century and Remedius Prutky in the 18th century, were amazed at the mass ordination of deacons and priests with little more than a wave of the cross and a prayer -- which was the Abuna's principal duty.
After many centuries, the Coptic and Ethiopian Churches reached an agreement (13 July 1948) that led to the promotion of the Ethiopian church to the rank of an autocephalous Patriarchate. Five bishops were immediately consecrated by the Patriarch of Alexandria, empowered to elect a new Patriarch for their church, and the successor to Abuna Qerellos IV would have the power to consecrate new bishops. The first native Christian to become patriarch was Abuna Baslios, who was consecrated 14 January 1951.
The current Abuna of Ethiopia is Abune Paulos.
