The Feast of the Ascension of the Lord was solemnly celebrated in several regions of Albania on May 21, 2026, with festive Divine Liturgies and processions led by Orthodox hierarchs.
In the village of Kakavia, located on the Albanian side of the Greek-Albanian border, the Church of the Ascension celebrated its patronal feast. Metropolitan Nathanael of Gjirokastër presided over Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy, assisted by local clergy.
At the conclusion of the service, a procession with the icon of the Ascension took place around the church.
In his sermon, Metropolitan Nathanael emphasized the spiritual significance of the Ascension, stressing that Christ opened the path toward salvation and the union of humanity with God. He called on the faithful to live with hope, faith, and love, keeping “their eyes and hearts always directed toward the Kingdom of Heaven.”
The church, situated in an elevated position overlooking the border area, was built between 1996 and 2004 through the sponsorship of Angeliki Pantazi in memory of her husband Theodoros Pantazis, who originated from the village. A memorial service for the repose of their souls was held after the Divine Liturgy.
The historic Church of the Ascension in Emporia, in the region of Korçë, also celebrated its feast day. Considered one of the area’s most important monuments, the church was declared a cultural monument in 1974. Built in 1389 during the rule of the Muzaka principality, it features 14th-century frescoes and is designed in the cross-in-square architectural style with a dome.
Meanwhile, Metropolitan Anthony of Elbasan celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Ascension in Gjinar.
During his homily, Metropolitan Anthony recalled Christ’s final command to His Apostles before the Ascension: to proclaim throughout the world the message of His Resurrection and victory over death. He also emphasized Christ’s promise that He would always remain with His followers.
A procession also took place at the end of the Divine Liturgy in Gjinar.
