Archbishop Joan Concludes Peaceful Visit to Ecumenical Patriarchate; Explores Hagia Sophia and Chora Monastery

OCP News Service – 19/06/2025

Constantinople – Turkey: Archbishop Joan of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania, concluded his peaceful and official visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. A highlight of his final day in the historic city was a profound visit to two of the most significant monuments of Byzantine heritage and Eastern Christianity: Hagia Sophia and the Chora Monastery.

The day began with the Archbishop and his delegation immersing themselves in the spiritual and artistic grandeur of these ancient sites. Hagia Sophia, the magnificent former cathedral of the Byzantine Empire, was experienced as a powerful testament to the unity of faith, art, and spiritual power that characterized Byzantine civilization. Following this, the delegation visited the Monastery of the Savior in Chora, recognized as an extraordinary example of the depth of iconographic expression and monastic vibrancy that has inspired generations. These two places, despite their evolving roles, remain living witnesses to the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Christianity, born and developed in the ancient city of Constantinople (Orthodox Times, June 18, 2025; CNA.al, June 17, 2025).

The visit to these revered landmarks underscored the historical and spiritual continuity shared between the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania and the Mother Church of Constantinople.

Later in the day, at 12:00, the Vllanga Community of Constantinople hosted a luncheon in honor of Archbishop Joan in their community hall. The gathering was attended by Metropolitan Maximus of Silivria, Metropolitan Stefan of Kaliupoleos, and various clergy and local community representatives, symbolizing the warm fellowship extended to the Albanian delegation.

Archbishop Joan respectfully departed from Istanbul Airport at 2:00 PM, accompanied by Metropolitan Maximus of Silivria, Mr. Armand Shandro, the Consul General of Albania in Istanbul, and other representatives of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, marking the official end of his meaningful pilgrimage.

Archbishop Joan of Albania Received with Honors at Ecumenical Patriarchate, Emphasizes Orthodox Unity

Source:
OCP News Service