By Fr. Elias Makos
The heartfelt cry of “Άξιος!” (“Worthy!”) echoed repeatedly from the Orthodox faithful of Korçë, as they addressed their beloved Metropolitan Ioannis during the Divine Liturgy at the Metropolitan Church of Korçë. This marked his first Liturgy as Archbishop of Albania, celebrated on the Third Sunday of Lent.
The atmosphere was deeply moving. For 27 years, Metropolitan Ioannis shepherded the Metropolis of Korçë, and his long-standing ministry left a profound imprint on the local Orthodox community and the wider region. The emotions and memories were intense and vivid, reflecting a deep bond between shepherd and flock.
With a trembling voice, Protopresbyter Fr. Elias spoke about the Archbishop’s devoted ministry in the Metropolis. He described how Ioannis served with a heart full of longing, firmly committed to the vision of Archbishop Anastasios, always moving forward with the unwavering belief that God walked beside him, granting him spiritual strength and inspiration.
Though Korçë now parts with him as its Metropolitan, the connection is far from broken. As Archbishop of Albania, Ioannis assumes greater responsibility for the entire Church, while still serving as Locum Tenens of the Metropolis until a successor is elected. His bond with the faithful of Korçë will continue in a new and meaningful way.
In his homily, Archbishop Ioannis emphasized the central message of the day’s Gospel:
“Our path passes through the Cross, through struggles and difficulties. The Cross is our greatest help. When we understand its mystery, our lives will be transformed.
Hope that springs from the Cross brings light. We do not stop at pain; we journey toward the Resurrection. The Cross is the very tool through which Christ conquered death.
Whoever wishes to follow Me, must take up their Cross, deny themselves, and follow Me. And when God tells us to deny ourselves, He means to deny falsehood.
We live in a time of spiritual darkness. Technology has advanced, but true joy is lacking. Only through spiritual life and by rejecting lies can we discover the light.”
Turning to the congregation, he expressed his heartfelt emotions:
“I am deeply moved today. I want to thank all those who have supported me. Separation is never easy—but it is temporary. I will always pray for this Diocese, which has been such a central part of my life.
Until a new Metropolitan is elected, I will continue to serve here. The Church’s history spans two thousand years. On this special day, I thank you all. I also ask forgiveness from anyone I may have hurt.
Please, pray for me—our journey is far from over. You are the living stones of the Church. It is the people that give life and value to these sacred walls.”
The Divine Liturgy was concelebrated by Bishop Nikolaos of Apollonia and Fier, Metropolitan Astios of Berat, Titular Metropolitan Nathanael of Amantia, and Assistant Bishop Anastasios of Krujë, alongside clergy from the Metropolis.
