Parish announcement · የደብር ማስታወቂያ
First Begena (Harp of David) Graduation Marks New Chapter for Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Manchester
Fifteen students have graduated from Debre Selam Kidist Selassie Church’s first Begena (Harp of David) training programme during its 2026 AGM, attended by UK and Ireland Diocese representatives. Certificates were presented, and registration for the second cohort is now open.
MANCHESTER, 14 November 2026 — Fifteen students have graduated from the first Begena (Harp of David) training programme at Debre Selam Kidist Selassie Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Manchester, marking an important milestone in preserving Ethiopia’s ancient Christian spiritual heritage.
The graduation ceremony took place during the Church’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM), attended by representatives of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Diocese of the United Kingdom and Ireland, alongside clergy, congregants, families and invited guests.
The Begena, commonly known as the “Harp of David”, is a sacred Ethiopian ten-stringed lyre traditionally associated with the biblical King David. It has a distinctive place in Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition, particularly in prayer, repentance, praise and spiritual reflection.
Organised by the Church’s Sunday School Department, the year-long programme ran from 24 November 2025 to 14 November 2026, equipping students with the skills to practise and preserve this centuries-old sacred tradition.
During the ceremony, all 15 graduates received certificates recognising their successful completion of the training. Instructors were also presented with certificates of appreciation for their dedication and contributions.
The achievement highlights the Church’s commitment to Christian education, youth engagement and safeguarding Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo heritage for future generations across Greater Manchester.
Following the successful first cohort, registration for the second Begena training programme is now open, welcoming children, young people and adults interested in learning the Harp of David.
The Church congratulated its graduates and expressed appreciation to the instructors, Sunday School Department, families and everyone who supported the programme.
The graduation represents a new chapter in passing Ethiopia’s sacred Orthodox Christian traditions to the next generation in Manchester.