The joyful message of the incarnation of the Son of God was celebrated festively by the Orthodox Church of Albania.
Metropolitan Nathaniel of Amantia officiated at the Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Tirana, which for many years served as the Cathedral of the city.
Orthodox faithful from Tirana filled the church, demonstrating their understanding of the Feast of the Annunciation as a celebration of freedom—in the sense that the true liberator, long foretold by the Prophets and awaited with longing by the people, has finally arrived.
Metropolitan Astios of Berat officiated at the Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Divjakë, where he ordained Deacon Iosif Korrea to the priesthood.
Metropolitan Antonios of Elbasan celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saint Athanasios in Elbasan.
In the homilies, it was emphasized that Mary, full of perfect humility, did not allow pride to overtake her—neither when she heard the Archangel address her as “full of grace,” nor when she was assured that God had chosen her to be His Mother. Her response was clear and decisive: “Let it be to me according to His will.”
The Virgin accepted to serve the mystery of our salvation, sending a clear message: the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to offer His life as a ransom for many—a service even greater than mere ministry.
Fr. Ilias Makos
