The body of Albania’s Orthodox Archbishop arrives in Tirana amid emotional scenes
The body of the Archbishop of the Orthodox Church Anastas Janullatos arrived in Tirana on Tuesday afternoon, triggering a profound outpouring of emotion in the Albanian capital. The funeral cortege, accompanied by clergy and mourners, walked solemnly from the Bank of Albania to the Orthodox Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ. The procession drew throngs of citizens who lined the streets, many in tears, paying their respects by throwing flowers in honor of the late spiritual leader.
Homages and ceremony: The body of Archbishop Anastas has been placed at the Resurrection Cathedral in Tirana, where the public is invited to pay their respects in the coming days. His funeral ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, with the attendance of clergy, state officials, and believers from Albania and the diaspora expected to honor his legacy.
The Orthodox Church has declared a five-day mourning period in memory of the Archbishop. This decision was announced during an extraordinary meeting of the Holy Synod held on Saturday. Additionally, the Synod appointed the Metropolitan of Korça, Joani, as the custodian of the Archbishop’s throne until a successor is chosen.
A life devoted to faith and service: The Archbishop passed away on January 19 at the age of 95 in the “Evangelismos” hospital in Athens, where he had been hospitalized since January 3 due to declining health. His life was dedicated to faith, interfaith dialogue, and service to humanity, leaving an extraordinary legacy that extended far beyond Albania’s borders.
Under his leadership, the Orthodox Church of Albania was not only restored from the ruins of communism but also flourished as a beacon of hope, peace, and reconciliation. His efforts in fostering religious harmony and reviving the spiritual life of Albanian Orthodox believers earned him immense respect across different faith communities globally.
Legacy and farewell: This week, Albania and the wider Orthodox Christian world mourn the loss of a leader whose influence went beyond spiritual guidance. Archbishop Anastas’s tireless dedication to rebuilding Albania’s Orthodox Church and his advocacy for peace and understanding have left an indelible mark on both the nation and the global Orthodox community.
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