Albanian Orthodox Church Enthrones New Primate, Archbishop Joan

OCP News Service – 31/03/2025

Tirana – Albania: The Albanian Orthodox Church celebrated the enthronement of its newly elected primate, Archbishop Joan of Korçë, at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Tirana on Saturday, March 29. The historic occasion was attended by representatives from all Orthodox Churches, diplomatic missions, religious leaders, government officials, and a large congregation of faithful.

Archbishop Joan was elected on March 16, following the passing of Archbishop Anastasios in late January. A longtime associate of his predecessor, he played a key role in rebuilding the Albanian Church after decades of religious persecution.

The enthronement ceremony commenced with the formal entrance of Archbishop Joan into the cathedral, followed by the reading of the Holy Synod’s encyclical announcing his election. The service continued with the prescribed liturgical rites and official addresses. Hierarchs from orthodox churches also attended the  enthronement ceremony.

In his enthronement speech, Archbishop Joan expressed deep gratitude to God and acknowledged all those who contributed to the revival of the Albanian Church. He paid tribute to the martyrs of Illyria, the saints who preserved the faith, and the new martyrs who upheld their religious and national identity despite adversity. He also honored his predecessors, particularly Archbishop Anastasios, praising his efforts in both rebuilding the Church’s infrastructure and fostering a true spirit of worship.

Outlining his vision, Archbishop Joan emphasized seven key principles for his ministry: preserving Sacred Tradition, strengthening Church unity, balancing the “Gospel of the Kingdom” with the “Social Gospel,” upholding the values of marriage and family, promoting religious coexistence in Albania, encouraging young people to remain in their homeland, and cultivating interfaith and interchurch relations.

“Personally, I will dedicate all my strength to serving the flock entrusted to me by God, always remembering the Lord’s words that the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve,” he affirmed.

Following the enthronement, an official luncheon was held in honor of the new Archbishop.

On the next day, March 30, Archbishop Joan presided over the Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, marking the beginning of his pastoral leadership. The liturgy was attended by clergy, dignitaries, and members of the faithful who gathered to pray and celebrate the new chapter in the life of the Albanian Orthodox Church.

On March 16, 2025, he was unanimously elected Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and all Albania, succeeding the late Archbishop Anastasios.

The enthronement of Archbishop Joan marks a new era for the Albanian Orthodox Church as it continues its mission of faith, unity, and service under his leadership.

Source:

OCP News Service & Albanian Orthodox Church