The Holy Synod of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania has elected Metropolitan John of Korçë as the first Albanian archbishop in over three decades. The election occurred after a Divine Liturgy in Tirana, celebrating the legacy of Archbishop Anastasios. John accepted his role with humility, promising to uphold Church traditions. His enthronement is scheduled for March 29, with significant community involvement expected. John’s notable contributions to theology and education enhance his leadership credentials.
The Holy Synod of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania has elected Metropolitan John of Korçë as the new Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and all Albania. This election is significant as it marks the appointment of the first Albanian archbishop in over thirty years, following the death of Archbishop Anastasios on January 25. The voting occurred after the Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Tirana, with the congregation expressing their support by proclaiming “Axios!”
Archbishop John humbly accepted his new role, expressing commitment to his duties and seeking divine guidance to fulfill his responsibilities. He stated, “With humility, obeying the divine will, I accept this high service and promise that I will faithfully fulfill my duty.” His enthronement ceremony is scheduled for March 29 at the Orthodox Cathedral in Tirana, with delegates from 13 Orthodox Churches anticipated to attend.
Born Fatmir Pelushi in 1956 in Korçë, Archbishop John previously served as Metropolitan after his enthronement in 1998. His early years were marked by clandestine religious practices during an oppressive regime, culminating in his secret baptism in 1979. Following the communist regime’s collapse in 1990, he pursued theological studies in the United States.
Upon his return to Albania, he was invited by Archbishop Anastasios to aid in the rejuvenation of the Orthodox Church. He was ordained in 1994, and in 1998, he became Metropolitan of Korçë. Over his 27-year tenure, he contributed significantly to the Church’s rehabilitation and engaged in charitable works throughout the region.
In addition to his ecclesiastical duties, Archbishop John has actively participated in theological education and authored fundamental texts, including a notable interfaith dialogue magazine, Tempulli. His commendable work has earned him numerous accolades, including the title of Honorary Doctor from the University of Korçë in 2018.
Reverend Nikolla Kodheli remarked on Archbishop John’s significance, stating, “The Church found its father; there is no house without a father,” highlighting the community’s trust in their new leader as a shepherd of faith.
The election of Archbishop John of Korçë signifies a historic moment for the Orthodox Church in Albania, marking the first Albanian archbishop in over thirty years. His acceptance of the role reflects a commitment to uphold the Church’s traditions and responsibilities. With extensive educational and pastoral experience, Archbishop John aims to strengthen both the Church and community interrelations. The forthcoming enthronement ceremony is anticipated to gather numerous faithful and representatives from sister Churches, affirming the Church’s unity under its new leadership.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
