Ethiopian Orthodox Church Harvest And Maskal And Burning Of Demara Festival, Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Scarborough marks Meskel in late September, one of the most important festivals in the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar. Meskel commemorates the finding of the True Cross and is celebrated with the lighting of a large bonfire, the Demera, around which the faithful gather in procession, prayer and song. Combined here with a harvest thanksgiving, it is a rare and striking occasion within Tobago’s mostly Anglican, Methodist and Moravian calendar. Worship and fellowship follow. All are welcome to witness the Demera and share in the celebration.