The memory of Saint Astius, who once served as Bishop in Durrës, Albania, was solemnly honored with a two-day cycle of liturgical celebrations presided over by Archbishop Ioannis.
At the church dedicated to both Saint Astius and the Apostle Paul, a festal Vespers with Artoklasia was celebrated on the eve of the feast, Saturday, July 5. On the following day, Sunday, July 6, the feast was marked with a festive Divine Liturgy, officiated by Archbishop Ioannis, joined by Bishop Anastasios of Kruja and local clergy.
A large number of faithful attended the services, reflecting the deep and enduring reverence for Saint Astius among the Christian community of Durrës, much like that held for the Apostle Paul.
During the celebration, Archbishop Ioannis offered a homily on the life and virtues of Saint Astius. The services concluded with a solemn procession of the saint’s icon around the church, in a spirit of devotion and gratitude.
The Church
Archbishop Anastasios commissioned the construction of the church in honor of Saint Astius and the Apostle Paul, on a site facing the location where the Church of Saint Spyridon and the Metropolitan See once stood, before their destruction during the religious persecution of 1967.
The foundation stone was laid in November 1994.
Though still under construction, the church served as a significant spiritual landmark in November 1999, when the Orthodox faithful of Durrës welcomed Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew during his first visit to Albania.
Construction was completed in early 2002.
The church was solemnly consecrated by Archbishop Anastasios on May 3, 2009, Palm Sunday.
Fr. Ilias Makos
