Archbishop Anastasios of Albania spoke at the SKAI television station about the earthquake that struck the country and left many dead and injured.
“Amidst all this turmoil I think there are some bright aspects,” he said, explaining that this sorrow has been met with a widespread mobilization of kindness, love and solidarity.
This solidarity has not only come from the people who live in Albania, he noted, referring to the assistance Albania receives from other countries. The Archbishop cited Greece as an example, which has rushed to assist Albania by sending rescue teams and equipment.
“Unfortunately, we do not have such a piece of equipment here,” he said while adding that “the situation remains very difficult and in some cases dramatic.”
“I feel this is very important,” he said noting that we must not be left in the dark, and place focus on the bright sides.
As stated by Archbishop Anastasios, the Albanian Orthodox Church does not represent the majority of the faithful of Albania and this implies fewer possibilities.
“We are about a 20 per cent but we are doing our best,” he said, noting that earthquake-stricken people are housed at the cathedral in Durres and the premises of theological school while an attempt is being made to collect necessities and money.
According to Archbishop Anastasios, in the face of such dramatic events, people should stay calm and clear-headed in order to make an efficient assessment and to plan what measures must be taken.