Ethiopian Holy Water Stoup

 

https://www.traditionrolex.com/25

Holy water stoups are common in churches. Most are near the entrance. The faithful dip a finger in water, making the sign of the cross on themselves as a reminder of their baptism. This is done after entering and before exiting the church.

 Two holy water stoups are in the narthex at the church entrance at St. Ambrose. Both are handmade by Patricia Ferrari Merrell. One is in the Ethiopian tradition and depicts Saint John the Baptism baptizing Jesus in the Jordan River. The Eastern Christians celebrate Epiphany (January 19th) as the Baptism of Jesus. Ethiopians call Epiphany Timkat (Baptism). It is the country’s largest religious celebration with millions of people around the country gathering around the pools, lakes, and ponds to remember and renew their baptism.

Patricia Ferrari Merrell is a ceramic artist living in Raleigh.

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