Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia has sent a heartfelt congratulatory message to the newly elected Archbishop John of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania.
In his letter, the Georgian Patriarch expressed his sincere congratulations on behalf of the Georgian Orthodox Church and himself, wishing Archbishop John strength and wisdom in fulfilling the great responsibility entrusted to him.
“May God grant you health, longevity, spiritual strength, and wisdom to carry out the significant responsibility placed upon you, so that you may be a worthy successor to the devoted service of the late Archbishop Anastasios,” wrote Patriarch Ilia.
He also expressed hope that under the new Archbishop’s leadership, the bonds between the Churches of Georgia and Albania would further strengthen. “We hope that during your leadership, the ties between our Churches will grow even stronger, and that your pastoral ministry will be fruitful and bring spiritual joy not only to your flock but to the Orthodox world as a whole,” he emphasized.
The message concluded with a blessing: “May our Lord Jesus Christ and the Most Holy Theotokos guide and strengthen you.”
The election of Archbishop John marks a significant moment for the Albanian Orthodox Church, as he steps into the role previously held by the late Archbishop Anastasios, who played a crucial role in the revival of Orthodoxy in Albania.
