The funeral service of the late Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania was presided over by the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Tirana.
Attending the service were the Hierarchy of the Church of Albania, as well as Primates and representatives from other Autocephalous Orthodox Churches.
In his eulogy, the Ecumenical Patriarch honored Archbishop Anastasios, highlighting his role in reviving the Orthodox Church in Albania after the challenges faced during the atheist regime. He praised Anastasios for his leadership, virtues, and dedication to the Church’s mission.
The Ecumenical Patriarch recounted the life and accomplishments of Archbishop Anastasios, from his appointment as Patriarchal Exarch to his election as Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania in 1992.
Reflecting on Anastasios’ pastoral leadership, the Ecumenical Patriarch acknowledged the challenges faced and the remarkable efforts made in rebuilding the Church. He commended Anastasios for his diplomatic skills and unwavering commitment to the Church’s interests.
Concluding his address, the Ecumenical Patriarch expressed confidence in the election of a worthy successor to Archbishop Anastasios’ throne, promising continued support from the Mother Church of Constantinople.
The service was attended by various dignitaries, including Patriarchs, Archbishops, political figures, and diplomats, who paid their respects to Archbishop Anastasios.
Warm Welcome to Tirana
Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport, the Ecumenical Patriarch and Pope and Patriarch Theodore of Alexandria were warmly welcomed by Church representatives and the Greek Ambassador. They then visited the Holy Resurrection Cathedral to pay their respects to Archbishop Anastasios.
Following the funeral service, the Ecumenical Patriarch engaged in meetings with fellow Primates and dignitaries, emphasizing the importance of unity and support within the Orthodox community.
After giving his blessing to the memorial meal hosted by the Holy Synod of the Church of Albania in memory of the late Primate, he departed with the Patriarch of Alexandria for Tirana Airport. The esteemed Hierarchs of the Most Holy Church of Albania bid a warm farewell to the Ecumenical Patriarch and the Patriarch of Alexandria. Upon their arrival in Constantinople that evening via private flight, they were greeted by the Patriarchal Commissioner, Geron Metropolitan Apostolos of Derkoi, and Grand Archimandrite Grigorios.
During his short visit to Tirana, the Ecumenical Patriarch was accompanied by Geron Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon, Metropolitan Stefanos of Kallioupolis and Madytos, Archimandrite Aetios, Deacon Eulogios Tsatsas, and Grand Logothete Theodoros Angelopoulos. The Patriarch of Alexandria was accompanied by Metropolitan George of Guinea.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou.
Source link