Bishop Ioannis of Korytsa (Korce) was elected by the Holy Synod on Sunday as the new Archbishop of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania, following the passing of Archbishop Anastasios.
The Holy Synod convened after the Divine Liturgy at the Resurrection of Christ Cathedral in Tirana.
Following the announcement of the new archbishop’s election, church bells rang joyfully across Albania, marking the occasion.
In his brief message to the faithful, who chanted “Axios!” (Worthy!), the new archbishop pledged to carry out his duties with devotion.
“I will honor the Holy Tradition and strive with all my strength to defend the rights of the Church. Aware of the weight of this responsibility, I pray to Christ, the Founder of the Church, to grant me enlightenment, strength, and wisdom.”
Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis contacted the new Archbishop to congratulate him.