It is with great sadness that I have learned of the passing of Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana-Durrës and all Albania at the age of 95. His life, which began in Piraeus on November 4, 1929, has now come full circle, embodying the journey of the soul back to God, as eloquently described by St. Maximos the Confessor.
Archbishop Anastasios’s legacy is one of rebuilding and renewal, particularly in the Albanian church where he brought new life after years of suppression. His dedication to serving the community through educational and social initiatives earned him respect and recognition, including the Athenagoras Human Rights Award and a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.
His leadership in the World Council of Churches and commitment to ecumenism highlighted the importance of understanding and dialogue among different faiths. Archbishop Anastasios’s passing is a loss for the global church community, but his teachings and example will continue to inspire generations to come.
We offer our prayers for Archbishop Anastasios’s eternal rest and peace in God’s kingdom, where he now resides in everlasting light. May his life and work continue to guide us in our own spiritual journeys.
With heartfelt condolences,
Elia
Archbishop of Helsinki and all Finland