Kulubi, Ethiopia
Blessed are the merciful, for these shall obtain mercy.
—Bible, Matthew 5:7
When the parishioners of the Orthodox Saint Gabriel Church in Kulubi desire to thank the archangel Gabriel for removing diseases and afflictions from their children, they embark on an end-of-the-year pilgrimage, bringing votive offerings along with spiritual vows and sacred promises. If a baby was born through Gabriel’s intervention, parents also bring the infant for baptism. The muscular-looking church on a hill overlooking the dusty plain welcomes Orthodox Christians, Muslims (who call the archangel Gabriel “Jibril,” as it is found in the Qur’an), and Animists who revere the sacred site where a tree once stood in place of the church.
If you desire to pray for healing for a child or for someone else, visit Saint Gabriel Church in Kulubi. Come in December when the weather is dry. From Addis Ababa, fly to Dire Dawa or take the overnight train or a daily bus. Minibuses also run from the nearby towns of Harar or Dire Dawa to Kulubi; the latter is roughly 42 miles. Dress appropriately. Bring the gift of a candle or umbrella, the most popular offerings along with livestock.
Put on a gabi (white cotton shawl that Orthodox Christians in the area wear). Say prayers of thanksgiving for a healing, leaving behind your offering.
Kulubi is the largest place of pilgrimage in Ethiopia.