Archbishop Ioannis of Albania played a crucial role in helping individuals persecuted during the communist regime in Albania, even before he entered the clergy.
This information came to light in 2009 on Italian television channel RAI DUE and was later highlighted in the Albanian media when a childhood friend from Italy, who had experienced persecution in Albania, reached out to Archbishop Ioannis after recognizing him on a TV program.
The friend, Ambrozio Guarnieri, had faced persecution under the Hoxha regime, and Archbishop Ioannis, known as Fatmir (Eftychios) Pelousi in his youth, provided unwavering support. Despite the oppressive ban on religious practices, he was baptized as an Orthodox Christian in 1979 by Father Kosmas Kyrios, a resilient figure who later became the bishop of Apollonia.
Archbishop Ioannis’ actions during the communist era exemplified his commitment to upholding human rights and Christian values. His courage and compassion towards the defenseless reflected his belief in the inherent dignity of all individuals.
His dedication to standing up for those in need, even at a young age, demonstrates the transformative power of ethical principles and Christian teachings in shaping a more just society.
Fr. Ilias Makos
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou