On Saturday, November 16, 2024, the Catholic Church in Albania marked a historic moment with the beatification of Father Luigj Paliq and Don Gjon Gazulli in the Cathedral of Shkodër. This solemn event honored the sacrifices of two martyrs who courageously gave their lives in defense of their faith, reaffirming the spiritual legacy of the Catholic Church in Albania. Their beatification builds upon the recognition of 38 Albanian martyrs in 2016, whose sacrifices under Communist persecution were similarly commemorated.
The beatification Mass was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, representing Pope Francis. He was joined by His Excellency Monsignor Angelo Massafra, Archbishop of Shkodër-Pult, and Albania’s Cardinal, His Eminence Ernest Troshani. The ceremony brought together an extraordinary assembly of Church leaders, including His Eminence Cardinal Francesco Montenegro, and His Excellency Archbishop Ladislav Nemet of Belgrade, soon to be the first Serbian cardinal.
The international significance of the ceremony was underscored by the presence of bishops from Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, and other countries. Religious representatives from the Orthodox Church, the Bektashi Order, and the Evangelical Church attended, highlighting the ecumenical and interfaith recognition of this solemn occasion.
Representing the Sovereign Order of Malta were Ambassador Stefano Palumbo and First Secretary Stiven Shala, reaffirming the Order’s unwavering solidarity with Albania’s Catholic community. Also in attendance was Mr. Antonio Rapisardi, Deputy Consul of Italy to Vlora, a member of the Order of Malta and of the ACISMOM governing body. Their participation underscored the enduring commitment of the Order to honor the sacrifices of martyrs and support the spiritual and social resilience of Albania.
Thousands of faithful from Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and Croatia gathered for the event, alongside diplomats and regional leaders. The absence of representatives from Albania’s highest political offices was notable, though the participation of Shkodër’s Mayor and a small number of parliamentarians ensured some political presence.
In his homily, Cardinal Semeraro reflected on the lives of the martyrs, praising their unwavering commitment to truth and faith in a world often divided by falsehood and indifference. He highlighted their example as a beacon of hope and unity for the Church and society.
