On Sunday, February 2, 2025, the Sunday of the Presentation, the nine-day memorial service was held at the Ressurection Cathedral in Tirana.
At the end of the Divine Liturgy, a memorial service was held at the Church of the Resurrection, officiated by the Locum Tenens of the Archdiocese of Albania, Metropolitan Ioannis of Korçë, accompanied by Metropolitans Nikolaos of Apollonia and Fier, Antonios of Elbasan, and Anastasios of Berat, as well as Nathanael of Amantia, Bishop Anastasios of Krujë, and clergy of the Archdiocese.
During his sermon, the Locum Tenens of the Archdiocese, who presided over the Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Resurrection—where a photograph of Archbishop Anastasios was placed on the hierarchical throne—spoke nostalgically about the late Archbishop. He emphasized the love and admiration that people continue to show him for his immense contribution, both spiritual and material, as well as for his words and deeds.
Bishop Anastasios of Krujë presided over the Trisagion at the tomb of Archbishop Anastasios, located within the cathedral complex, alongside the Locum Tenens of the Archdiocesan Throne, Metropolitan Ioannis of Korçë, as well as Metropolitans Nikolaos, Antonios, Asty, and Nathanael.
The simple inscription, “Anastasios – Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania,” along with the emblem of the Archdiocese, is engraved on the austere tomb, which features a Crucifixion and a candle.
Moreover, a large number of believers venerated the tomb of the unforgettable Archbishop, feeling the living presence of his soul, as figures like Archbishop Anastasios cannot be overcome by the death of the body.
This tomb reminds us that Anastasios lived a life of virtue, gifts, and fruitfulness through the tunnel of time—a journey marked by challenges, yet one that ultimately led him to the heavenly homeland.
With patience and love, he navigated this path, and Christ never abandoned him; He was always by his side.
The tunnel of time has now come to an end for Anastasios, and the train of his existence, along with the gifts he bestowed upon humanity, has entered the light of the endless day.
From Tirana, Anastasios will continue to sound the trumpet of brotherhood, and his tomb will remain a source and testament to catholicity.
Text: Fr. Ilias Makos
