The Embassy of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Albania joins the Albanian nation and the faithful in mourning the loss of His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios, head of the Orthodox Church of Albania, who passed away on January 25, 2025, at the age of 95 in Athens, Greece.
A visionary and tireless leader, Archbishop Anastasios played a pivotal role in the revival of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania after the fall of the communist regime. Elected in 1992, he dedicated over 33 years to rebuilding the Church from the ruins of an atheist era, restoring faith and hope to a nation deprived of religious freedom for decades.
His Beatitude rebuilt hundreds of churches, established educational and charitable institutions, and trained a new generation of clergy, leaving an indelible legacy of faith, compassion, and service. Known for his advocacy of interfaith dialogue and charitable work, he was a bridge-builder in Albania’s diverse religious landscape, embodying unity and reconciliation.
As citizens gathered to light candles in front of the Orthodox Cathedral in Tirana and church bells tolled in mourning, tributes poured in from across Albania and abroad. President Bajram Begaj paid homage to the Archbishop’s unparalleled dedication, stating, “His love for the people and tireless work contributed to strengthening the Orthodox faith in Albania, paving a new path after a challenging period.”
Ambassador Stefano Palumbo and the diplomatic staff of the Sovereign Order of Malta extend their deepest condolences to the Orthodox Church of Albania and all its faithful. “His Beatitude’s unwavering dedication to faith and service will remain a guiding light for generations to come. May his memory be eternal,” said Ambassador Palumbo.
Archbishop Anastasios will be remembered as a spiritual father, a rebuilder of faith, and a relentless advocate for unity and charity. The Embassy joins the Orthodox faithful in prayer for the repose of his soul and expresses its solidarity during this time of loss. May his memory be eternal.
