Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia sent a congratulatory message to Archbishop Ioannis of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania on the occasion of his Name Day, celebrated on the feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist.
“Your Beatitude, Beloved in the Lord Brother and Concelebrant at God’s Altar, Please accept my heartfelt greetings on your Name Day – the commemoration day of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, a true friend and great intimate of Christ (Sticheron to the Saint),” wrote Patriarch Kirill.
The Patriarch praised Archbishop Ioannis for his leadership in the Orthodox Church of Albania:
“Finding strength in the intercession of your heavenly patron and striving to rely on the Lord in all things, you carry the heavy cross of Primatial ministry with humility and love, in the priestly service of the gospel of God (Rom 15:16) in the blessed land of Albania.”
Concluding his message, Patriarch Kirill offered prayers for Archbishop Ioannis’ health and ministry:
“May the All-Generous Lord grant you peace and health, renew your bodily and spiritual strength, and give you His abundant help in your further Primatial labours.”
