In a joyful and historic ceremony on March 29, Archbishop Ioannis (Pelushi) was officially enthroned as the new Primate of the Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Tirana.
The event marked the beginning of a new era for the Church, following the passing of Archbishop Anastasios, who spent over thirty years rebuilding the Church after the atheist persecution.
The ceremony was attended by various Orthodox Church representatives, government officials, diplomatic missions, and a large crowd of faithful.
His Grace Bishop Anastasios of Krujë read the Holy Synod’s encyclical, and the official enthronement service followed.
Addresses were given by key figures, including Metropolitan Nikolaos of Apollonia and Fier, Fr Alexios Donis, Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon, and Albanian President Bajram Begaj.
In his enthronement speech, Archbishop Ioannis expressed deep gratitude, honouring the martyrs of Illyria and his predecessors, especially Archbishop Anastasios.
He outlined seven key priorities for his ministry, including preserving Holy Tradition, strengthening Church unity, and promoting inter-religious coexistence in Albania.
The ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Albanian President Bajram Begaj, Greek government representatives, and officials from various Orthodox Churches around the world. Following the service, an official luncheon was held to celebrate the event.
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