Kidane Mehret (ኪዳነ ምሕረት, “Covenant of Mercy”) is a feast of the Virgin Mary. According to Ethiopian Orthodox tradition, Christ promised his mother that he would show mercy to all who ask for her intercession or do good in her name. The church celebrates this covenant on the 16th of each month, and with a great annual feast on Yekatit 16.
How it is celebrated
Churches dedicated to Kidane Mehret hold a tabot procession, and many believers who have made vows to her host a meal for the poor or for their mahber (church fellowship group). The feast is especially loved by women, and many girls are named Kidan or Mehret.
The date
Yekatit 16 falls on February 23 in most years and February 24 in the year after an Ethiopian leap year.
Ge'ez Calendar