At the beginning of September 2024, a delegation of clergy and lay leaders from the Holy Archdiocese of Albania, led by Metropolitan Nikolaos of Apollonia and Fier, visited Greece for a three-day stay from September 1 to 3. They were hosted at the Holy Hermitage of Saints Augustine and Seraphim of Sarov in the region of Fokida.
The delegation, which included Metropolitan Nikolaos, six clergymen, and 35 lay leaders (catechists, camp leaders, and organizational executives), visited with the blessing of Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania. Their mission was to connect with clergy in Greece who have undertaken significant spiritual work in youth ministry and to learn methods and teachings aimed at attracting young people to Christ and His Church.
The three-day stay in Trikorfo, Fokida, proved to be a time of spiritual renewal for the Albanian delegation. Elder Nektarios spent several hours with the group, imparting his wisdom through spiritual teachings and sharing the timeless, charismatic spiritual power he embodies. His aim was to pass on a sacred legacy of selfless love for the younger generation.
During their stay, the delegation also had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with Archimandrite Augustinos Syros, the priest responsible for the youth ministry of the Holy Metropolis of Fokida. Fr. Augustinos introduced the group to the camp’s activities, its various age groups, and its approach to spiritual and organizational matters, including sports and other youth-focused programs.
The participants felt deeply moved by the love, respect, and dedication shown by the fathers of the Holy Monastery. They were served with joy, humility, prayer, and self-denial, and in each person, they saw the face of God.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
