Bishop Astios Elected as Metropolitan of Berat, Vlora, and Kanina
OCP News Service – 14/11/2024
Tirana – Albania: The Holy Synod of the Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania has elected Bishop Astios of Byllis as the new Metropolitan of Berat, Vlora, and Kanina. The decision was made on November 14, 2024, during synodal session.
Metropolitan Astios will be officially enthroned on November 21, 2024, at the Cathedral of St. Demetrios in Berat.
Born in Durrës in 1974, Metropolitan Astios completed his theological studies at the Theological-Hieratic Seminary in Durrës and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He has served in various roles within the Albanian Orthodox Church, including as Auxiliary Bishop to the Archbishop and Protosyncellus of the Archdiocese of Tirana.
Metropolitan Astios is known for his contributions to theological education, liturgical life, and interfaith dialogue. He has been involved in the administration of the Archdiocese of Tirana, taught at the Theological Academy of St. Vlasius, and served as a key figure in youth ministry and interreligious cooperation.
OCP News Service
