Today, May 8, the Orthodox Church in Albania commemorates the memory of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist, the beloved disciple of Christ. Although the official name day of Archbishop Joan (Ioannis) of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania is celebrated on September 26—marking the Feast of the Repose of Saint John the Theologian—the faithful offered special prayers today for their spiritual leader.
“May the Lord grant His Beatitude many years filled with grace and love,” was the heartfelt wish shared by clergy and laity alike.
A festive Divine Liturgy took place at the Church of the Annunciation in Tirana, where moments of prayer and reverence reflected the joy and spiritual depth of the occasion.
