By: Yitbarek Tekalign
Today, the Annual Gudina Tumsa Legacy Day, held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Hall, concluded successfully with a day full of thoughtful presentations and a vibrant panel discussion. Guided by the theme “Reading the Signs of the Times,” the gathering brought together over 1,000 participants, including scholars, religious leaders, development practitioners, and individuals from various backgrounds, to reflect on the enduring relevance of Rev. Gudina Tumsa’s holistic vision.
The program featured an opening devotion from Rev. Haregewoyin, followed by a welcome address from Mrs. Lensa Gudina, Managing Director of Gudina Tumsa Foundation, who linked the day’s theme to the foundational principles of Rev. Gudina’s legacy. A powerful keynote address by Dr. Lemma Degefa focused on discerning God’s timing in a disrupted world, complemented by scholarly presentations from Dr. Mihret Debebe on a theological and conceptual framework, and Dr. Samuel Yonas on the role of the global church in a Kairos moment. Dr. Yonas highlighted how the term “Kairos” signifies a decisive and opportune time for divine intervention and spiritual renewal.
In the later session, Dr. Geleta Simesso offered a comprehensive historical and theological overview of the Ethiopian Evangelical movement, reflecting on its formative years, times of persecution, and the opportunities and challenges it has faced in recent decades. His analysis underscored the resilience and faithfulness of the movement, providing valuable lessons for the church’s mission today.
The day also included a presentation by Mr. Asayehgne Legesse on the Ethiopian Evangelical Church in the age of digital technology, exploring how modern tools can be leveraged to advance the church’s mission and strengthen community engagement.
The day’s discussions embodied Gudina Tumsa’s visionary theology and its contemporary application. A highlight was the lively and interactive panel discussion, which brought together diverse perspectives, fostered constructive dialogue, and encouraged active audience engagement.
The event successfully honored Rev. Gudina Tumsa’s legacy while reaffirming the ongoing importance of his vision, integrating faith with justice, spiritual growth with social responsibility, and promoting holistic development in response to today’s pressing challenges.
