The Orthodox Church Participates in “Marriage Week”

The Albanian Orthodox Church

February 2013

As the Orthodox Clergy and believers of Elbasan we are following with much  concern and are shocked by the ongoing pressure that is being exercised on our  Orthodox community, and we cannot remain silent in the face of this situation,  which is continuing to deteriorate.

After the damage to the Onufri  frescoes in the Church of St. Premte, in Valsh of Elbasan a month ago, which has  remained unsolved until now, another attack has been made on an Orthodox symbol,  the Cross in the Fikas village of the Elbasan. More specifically, on February  12, 2013, residents of the area, as well as casual passersby found the Cross  intentional damaged. It stands in a holy place where a church had once
stood.

Facing these attacks and barbaric acts we feel increasingly threatened and hurt,  in our feelings and our faith. Symbols and religious objects, as an expression  of religious freedom and mutual respect, must have the respect and protection of  everyone, without distinction. Religious harmony is expressed precisely in these  values and we, as the people of this country, have known very well to protect these values, and must strive constantly not to allow them to be affected in the  future.

Finally, we ask the law enforcement and state agencies to show  attention and efficacy in the detection and prevention of such acts, halting the
evil destructive hands and minds.

Orthodox Clergy and believers  of Elbasan

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