Archbishop Anastasios, the head of the Orthodox Church of Albania, passed away at the age of 95 in an Athens hospital on Saturday, as reported by the church.
Anastasios played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Church in Albania, an independent branch of the Eastern Orthodox Church. He was chosen to lead it in 1992 after the fall of the communist regime that had governed the country for years.
Admitted to a hospital in Tirana in early December with the flu, Anastasios' health worsened, leading to his transfer to Evangelismos Hospital in Athens. The Orthodox Church of Albania confirmed his passing due to multiple organ failure.
In Tirana, citizens mourned by lighting candles in front of the Orthodox Cathedral while bells tolled continuously.
Reflecting on Anastasios' contributions, Iva Ademi, 65, stated, "He gave a lot to Albania, especially for us as a nation where religion was denied for 50 years. It was difficult to start convincing people that they have to believe again somewhere."
Greek lawmakers held a minute of silence at the start of a session in parliament on Saturday morning.
An advocate for interfaith dialogue, Anastasios had been a missionary in various African countries, renowned for his charitable efforts to assist the disadvantaged and marginalized in Albania.
Condolences were expressed by the President of Albania and the Greek Prime Minister.
"Albania today mourns the loss of His Beatitude, the Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania," said President Bajram Begaj, highlighting Anastasios' dedication to strengthening and guiding the Albanian Orthodox faith during challenging times.