The Monastery of Saint John Vladimir in Elbasan, Albania, celebrated over the two days of June 3rd and 4th.
Many faithful people participated, coming from various regions of Albania, Montenegro, Serbia, and other places. The faithful had the opportunity to venerate the relic of Saint John Vladimir.
On Tuesday, June 3, the eve of the feast, Metropolitan Antonios of Elbasan opened the reliquary containing the saint’s relic, which is preserved in Tirana. Metropolitan Antonios and the attending clergy then venerated the relic. This was followed by a hierarchical vigil presided over by Metropolitan Nathanael of Amantia and officiated by Metropolitan Antonios.
On the day of the feast, Archbishop John led the Divine Liturgy, with Metropolitan Antonios of Elbasan and Bishop Anastasios of Kruja co-officiating alongside clergy of the Metropolis of Elbasan.
Toward the end of the liturgy, after the blessing of the loaves, a procession was held around the monastery church, led by the Archbishop.
During the procession of the saint’s relic, renowned for its healing power, and the icon of Saint John Vladimir, who endured many trials, even from his people, yet defended himself through prayer, the faithful felt that, amid the hardships of our times, God is testing our wings.
Yet, He watches over us. He stands by us and helps us when we are in need. He lifts us on his wings.
In the presence of the saint’s relic, many felt the need to purify their souls of any hidden impurity.
God desires to dwell in each of our souls, so we must guard their innermost sanctuary in purity.
According to some sources, the Monastery of Saint John Vladimir, deeply renovated by Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, is believed to be one of the monasteries founded by the saint himself during his time as ruler of Dioclea, which included present-day Montenegro and much of Albania.
According to one tradition, the body of the martyred ruler was initially buried in the church of Saint Achilleios in Prespa, where he was assassinated.
In 1368, Albanian ruler Karl Thopia transferred the remains to the monastery.
The monastery’s main church was destroyed by two successive fires—first by the Italians, then by the Germans.
Some frescoes survive in the apse.
Beneath the church’s floor lies a burial ground, as evidenced by a vaulted entrance located northeast of the church.
The sanctuary (Holy Altar) is separated from the rest of the church by a brick icon screen (iconostasis).
Fr. Elias Makos / Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
