Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, a pivotal figure in the revival of the Albanian Orthodox Church, passed away on January 25, 2025, at the age of 95. His leadership transformed a church devastated by decades of communist oppression into a vibrant community of faith. Anastasios was known for his commitment to interfaith dialogue, education, and social justice, leaving a profound impact on both the Albanian Orthodox community and the broader Orthodox world.
Key Takeaways
- Archbishop Anastasios led the Albanian Orthodox Church for over 30 years.
- He played a crucial role in revitalizing the church after the fall of communism in Albania.
- His contributions extended beyond religious leadership to social and educational initiatives.
- Anastasios was recognized for his efforts in promoting interfaith dialogue and coexistence.
A Visionary Leader
Born Anastasios Yannoulatos on November 4, 1929, in Piraeus, Greece, he was deeply involved in church life from a young age. After completing his theological studies, he served in various capacities, including as a missionary in Africa. His experiences abroad shaped his understanding of the importance of community and education in fostering faith.
In 1991, he was appointed to restore the Albanian Orthodox Church, which had been nearly eradicated during the communist regime. By 1992, he was elected as the Archbishop of Tirana and All Albania, where he embarked on a mission to rebuild the church from the ground up.
Reviving the Albanian Orthodox Church
Under Anastasios’s leadership, the Albanian Orthodox Church saw remarkable growth and revitalization. Key achievements included:
- Reopening Over 400 Parishes: He worked tirelessly to restore abandoned churches and reestablish the church’s presence in communities.
- Construction of New Churches: Anastasios oversaw the building of numerous new churches, providing spaces for worship and community gathering.
- Educational Initiatives: He established higher education institutions and promoted theological education, ensuring a new generation of clergy was well-prepared.
- Social Programs: His commitment to social justice led to the development of healthcare and rural development programs, addressing the needs of the community.
Tributes and Remembrance
The news of Archbishop Anastasios’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from leaders across the globe. Albanian President Bajram Begaj praised his dedication and love for the people, stating that Anastasios contributed significantly to the strengthening of the Albanian Orthodox faith.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis highlighted Anastasios’s role as a spiritual leader and advocate for human rights, noting his impact on both the Albanian community and the Greek diaspora.
Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria referred to him as a โtireless laborer of the Gospel,โ emphasizing his transformative influence on the church and the broader Orthodox community.
A Lasting Legacy
Archbishop Anastasios’s legacy is one of resilience, faith, and commitment to service. His efforts not only revived the Albanian Orthodox Church but also fostered a spirit of unity and cooperation among different faith communities. As the church mourns his loss, it also celebrates the profound impact he made during his lifetime, ensuring that his vision for a vibrant and inclusive church will continue to inspire future generations.
Sources
- Patriarch of Serbia mourned the passing of Archbishop of Albania | Orthodox Times (en), Orthodox Times.
- His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana and All Albania falls asleep in the Lord / News / Patriarchate.ru, ะะฐััะธะฐัั ะธั.ru.
- Archbishop Anastasios, visionary leader who revived Albania’s Orthodox Church, dies at 95 – Catholic news โ La Croix International, La croix international.
- Patriarch of Alexandria pays tribute to late Archbishop Anastasios of Albania | Orthodox Times (en), Orthodox Times.
- President leads tributes to late Archbishop Anastasios of Albania | eKathimerini.com, eKathimerini.com.
