Albania mourns the death of Archbishop Anastasios at 95

Albania's Orthodox Church lost its prominent leader when Anastasios Yannoulatos passed away on January 13, 2024, in a hospital in Athens. He was 95 years old and had been the Archbishop of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania since 1992. His death occurred in the intensive care unit of Evangelismos hospital, where he was treated for polyorgan deficiency. Anastasios became a significant figure in Albania following the fall of the communist regime, which had repressed religious practices since the mid-20th century. Upon his arrival in the country in 1991, following the regime's collapse, he dedicated his life to the revival and revitalization of the Orthodox Church, serving with commitment and dedication for more than three decades. The fall of the communist regime had left Albania's Orthodox Church in ruins, with places of worship destroyed and clergy mostly absent. Anastasios worked tirelessly to rebuild church life from the ground up, overseeing the reorganization of over 400 parishes and the construction of around 150 new churches. He also focused on restoring numerous cultural monuments and ecclesiastical buildings, further strengthening the church's presence in Albanian society. He nurtured a whole new generation of clergy, ordaining 168 individuals and establishing youth centers to engage the younger population in religious and community activities. Not only was Anastasios responsible for fostering church growth, but he also contributed significantly to religious education. He played a key role in translating liturgical texts into Albanian and publishing religious literature, which aimed to meet the spiritual needs of the Albanian faithful. His intellectual contributions extended beyond local efforts; he published 24 books and over 200 academic studies that were translated into 17 different languages, showcasing his commitment to Orthodox thought and spirituality. His academic achievements included roles as a professor and dean at the University of Athens and leadership positions within international religious organizations like the World Council of Churches. Anastasios's legacy is particularly notable given the historical context of Albania's religious landscape. Despite the country's predominantly Muslim population, Anastasios advocated for harmony among various religious communities, including Catholics and nonbelievers. His death has left a deep void within the Albanian Orthodox community, with numerous leaders and government officials expressing their condolences and reflecting on his significant role in the country's spiritual leadership. The church described him as a rebuilder who provided unending and sacrificial service, emphasizing that his impact will be felt for generations to come.