On Friday, November 22, 2024, the newly enthroned Metropolitan of Berat, Astios, celebrated his first Divine Liturgy at the Metropolitan Church of Saint Demetrios in Berat. The Liturgy was an important milestone in his ministry, marking the beginning of his pastoral leadership in the region.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Astios honored his predecessor, the late Metropolitan Ignatius, by performing a Trisagion service at his tomb, paying respect to the legacy of the former Metropolitan.
This solemn occasion follows the enthronement ceremony held the previous day at the same Metropolitan Church of Saint Demetrios, where Metropolitan Astios was officially installed as the new leader of the Metropolis of Berat. The ceremony was presided over by Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, who welcomed and supported the new Metropolitan in his sacred responsibilities.