By Fr. Elias Makos
The faithful in Albania gathered in churches to celebrate the glorious event of the Transfiguration of Christ, where the divine splendor and glory of God, hidden by His human nature, were revealed.
As part of the tradition, grapes were blessed at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy.
Bishop Astios of Velidon led the service at the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior in Tirana, held at the “Tabor” Spiritual Center, with the assistance of local priests.
Metropolitan John presided over the celebration at the Church of the Transfiguration in Korça, emphasizing in his sermon that the disciples witnessing the glory of the Lord was a glimpse of what awaits us at His Second Coming.
At the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior in Gramsh, Metropolitan Antonios of Elbasan conducted the service. Following the Divine Liturgy, the icon of the Transfiguration of the Savior was carried in a procession around the churchyard.
Similar celebrations took place in the metropolises of Berat, Gjirokastër, and Fier, where the Transfiguration of the Savior was honored. The disciples of Christ were awestruck and fearful at the extraordinary sight of His transfigured form.
They were overwhelmed by the splendor of the Lord, forgetting worldly concerns and desiring to be filled with divine joy.
It is essential for us to strive towards our own transformation. This can be achieved by fulfilling our duties as Orthodox Christians in the right manner.
Today, it is commendable to acknowledge those who faithfully carry out their Christian responsibilities. However, fulfilling these duties is a fundamental obligation for believers.
We must continue to evolve and improve ourselves for our own benefit. Our transformation will be successful if we collaborate with God, working for Him and with Him.
God desires us to be His partners in the process of transformation, becoming the architects of our own spiritual growth.
Transformation, rooted in a living faith in Christ and progress in virtue, should be a defining trait of every Christian. Those who face tribulations with faith are able to endure and transform their lives through their belief in God.
This transformation leads to optimism, peace, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges, as it originates from the eternal and almighty God, rather than the frailty of humanity.
