Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa expressed profound sorrow upon hearing of the passing of Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania. In a heartfelt statement, he conveyed condolences on behalf of the Hierarchy, clergy, and faithful of the Apostolic and Patriarchal Throne of Alexandria to the Holy Synod, clergy, monastic communities, and Orthodox faithful of the Autocephalous Church of Albania.
Patriarch Theodore described the late Archbishop as “a tireless laborer of the Gospel,” who revitalized the Albanian Orthodox Church, likening him to a “courageous Cyrenean” who bore the burdens of the Church. He praised Anastasios as “a catechist, a baptizer, a spiritual father, and a historical Primate” whose ministry transformed a spiritually parched land into a vibrant hub of faith.
The news of Archbishop Anastasios’ passing resonated deeply in Africa, with bells tolling mournfully and memorial prayers offered in multiple languages across Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania—regions where Anastasios served as Archbishop of Kenya and Irinoupolis from 1981 to 1991, laying the foundation for missionary and pastoral work.
The Patriarch noted that the Church of Alexandria, still grappling with challenges reminiscent of those described in the Acts of the Apostles, holds Anastasios’ memory in high esteem. “We pray in gratitude for his soul, which inspired faith across the African continent,” he remarked.
Concluding his statement, Patriarch Theodore prayed for the election of a worthy successor by the Holy Synod of the Church of Albania, one capable of continuing the spiritual legacy and remarkable infrastructure left by Archbishop Anastasios, whom he described as a rare spiritual giant who lived and embodied the joy of the Resurrection.
