Metropolitan Nathanael of Gjirokastër presided over the Orthros and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the historic Monastery of Saint John the Theologian in the village of Tserkovitsa in the region of Finiq, Albania.
The monastery remains a deeply revered spiritual center for the local Orthodox faithful, who honor both the saint and the sacred site, where according to tradition Cosmas of Aetolia preached in 1777.
During the years of state atheism in Albania, the monastery served as a hidden refuge for believers, offering spiritual strength and encouragement during times of persecution.
Following the Divine Liturgy and Artoklasia service, Metropolitan Nathanael met and spoke with local residents, a pastoral gesture of particular importance for the Orthodox communities of the area.
The presence of the Metropolitan brought joy and emotion to the village, with the church filled with worshippers and the local community gathering around the historic monastery.
Dating back to around 1600, the monastery belongs to the post-Byzantine period and became an important spiritual center during the Ottoman era.
The katholikon of the monastery has suffered significant damage over time. Since the site has been designated a cultural monument, restoration work has been scheduled by the Institute of Monument Restoration of Albania.
Fr. Ilias Makos
