In a solemn and joyful ceremony, Monsignor Giovanni Peragine officially assumed his role as Metropolitan Archbishop of Shkodër-Pult, succeeding Archbishop Angelo Massafra, who concluded an extraordinary three decades of dedicated pastoral leadership.

The event, held at the Cathedral of Shkodër, brought together a distinguished assembly of guests, including Albanian bishops, prominent politicians, members of the clergy, believers, and representatives of the diplomatic corps. Among the notable attendees was Monsignor Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of the Diocese of Rome, alongside other high-ranking ecclesiastical figures.

The First Secretary of the Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Albania, Stiven Shala, attended the ceremony, reaffirming the Order’s strong relationship with the local Catholic community and its support for the mission of the new Archbishop.

In his inaugural address, Archbishop Peragine highlighted the importance of dialogue and unity, emphasizing:
“Dialogue and all the other non-Catholic realities present in the diocese will also be important. I think of the Orthodox believers and other Christian believers, of our Muslim brothers, and of the civil authorities who work for citizens and protect the dignity of civilians.”

Monsignor Peragine brings pastoral experience to his new position, having served as Apostolic Administrator of Southern Albania since 2017. His tenure in the south, a region where the Catholic Church has seen a steady increase in conversions, is a testament to his commitment to evangelization and missionary work.

The Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta congratulates Archbishop Peragine on this significant milestone and expresses deep gratitude to Archbishop Massafra for his remarkable service to the Church and the faithful of Shkodër-Pult. The enthronement marks the beginning of a new chapter for the diocese, filled with hope and renewed dedication to faith and service.