Historic Election of First Albanian Archbishop in Over 30 Years

Metropolitan John of Korçë has been elected as the new Archbishop of Tirana, marking a historic appointment as the first Albanian cleric in over 30 years. Following the passing of Archbishop Anastasios, the election was celebrated by the faithful at the Cathedral of the Resurrection in Tirana. The enthronement ceremony is set for March 29, and Archbishop John’s extensive contributions to the Church and society are noted throughout his ministry.

The Holy Synod of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania has appointed Metropolitan John of Korçë as the new Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and all Albania. This significant election follows the passing of Archbishop Anastasios on January 25, marking the first appointment of an Albanian cleric in over 30 years. The election occurred after the Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Tirana, where congregants celebrated by declaring “Axios!” in approval.

Upon his election, Archbishop John expressed his commitment, saying that he would honor the Church’s traditions and fulfill his responsibilities with dedication. He humbly requested divine guidance to enact his duties effectively. The enthronement ceremony for Archbishop John is scheduled for March 29 in Tirana, with representatives from 13 sister Orthodox Churches anticipated to attend.

Known as Fatmir Pelushi, Archbishop John was born in 1956 in Korçë and has served as Metropolitan since his election in 1998. He secretly practiced his faith during Albania’s dictatorship, and in 1979, he was baptized amidst religious persecution. Following Albania’s communist regime collapse in 1990, he studied theology in the United States and returned to Albania to help rebuild the Orthodox Church.

After his return to Albania, Archbishop John undertook various roles within the Church, ultimately being elected Metropolitan of Korçë in 1998. His ministry has been characterized by efforts to enhance the Church’s charitable work and rebuild its structure. He has also contributed to theological education and penned significant texts in Albanian, including a Dogmatics work for the Church.

Furthermore, he founded and directs the magazine Tempulli, which showcases works from notable scholars and promotes cultural discourse. His contributions toward interfaith dialogue and education have been widely acknowledged, leading to several honors, such as being named an Honorary Citizen of Korça and receiving an Honorary Doctorate.

Father Nikolla Kodheli remarked on the significance of the election, stating that “the Church found its father… all members entrusted their vote to His Beatitude, Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and all Albania, His Grace John.” This reflects the deep trust and support within the church community for Archbishop John’s leadership.

The election of Metropolitan John as Archbishop marks a pivotal moment in the Albanian Orthodox Church, as he is the first native cleric appointed in over three decades. His extensive background, theological contributions, and commitment to charitable actions position him as a vital leader during a time of renewal for the Church. With a strong foundation in faith and a dedication to interfaith dialogue, Archbishop John is poised to guide the Church towards a prosperous future.

Original Source: www.jpost.com