A Trisagion service was held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the grave of the late Archbishop Anastasios of Albania inside the Resurrection Cathedral in Tirana. His 40-day memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, March 1st.
Following the Divine Liturgy, which he presided over, Metropolitan Nathaniel of Amantia led the Trisagion, surrounded by clergy of the Archdiocese. The profound emotion of those present was evident as they paid tribute to an Archbishop of great vision and accomplish-ments.
Meanwhile, in Berat, Metropolitan Astios led a Trisagion at the grave of the late Metropolitan Ignatios of Berat, located in the courtyard of the Cathedral of Saint Dimitrios.
Likewise, Metropolitan Nicholas of Apollonia and Fier presided over memorial prayers at the Church of Saint George in Fier.
Throughout Albania, Orthodox faithful gathered in churches with koliva (memorial wheat offerings) to pray for the repose of their departed loved ones. Clergy also conducted memorial services in cemeteries, commemorating deceased members of the Orthodox community, both clergy and laity.
Beyond honoring the departed, these memorial services carry two profound spiritual messages. First, they highlight the unbreakable bond of the faithful, who express their love, concern, and solidarity through prayers for those who have passed on, now belonging to the triumphant Church. Second, they serve as a reminder of life’s true purpose: material possessions are fleeting and temporary, while spiritual values endure eternally.
This reflection calls upon the faithful to focus on what truly matters—living a virtuous life, performing good deeds, and preparing their souls for eternity. This perspective should inspire acts of kindness, righteousness, and spiritual dedication, reminding us that our ultimate journey is toward the life beyond.
Fr. Elias Makos
