Twenty-seven joyful years of ressurection were completed since the enthronement of Archbishop Anastasios of Albania.
On August 2, 1992, Albanians, Orthodox and non-Orthodox, officially welcomed Anastasios (since 1991 he had been appointed Patriarchal Exarch), expecting much from him.
He succeeded in the spirit of peace, cooperation and understanding that he naturally unfolded, to persuade and bring close to him even those who initially distrusted him, and to make everyone acknowledge him and his offering.
Archbishop Anastasios contributed to the cohesion of the people, cooperating with other religious communities, avoiding conflictual relations, without devaluing, of course, the Orthodox beliefs and ideas.
He received a Church with ruined temples, few priests, and without administrative structure.
In a short time, he not only gave substance to the Albanian Orthodox Church, but also surrounded it with his own international prestige.
He was trusted – and they were justified – by the heads of States and Religions and by thousands of people of all castes around the world, who have supported his valiant endeavor.
In addition to rebuilding the Church of Albania, he also looked at the reconstruction of Albanian society, carrying out infrastructure projects (roads, aqueducts, etc.), but also developing initiatives in the educational and cultural sectors (founding schools, a Theological Academy and a University, promoting historical temples and monasteries). He also dealt a lot with charity, where his contribution is enormous.
