TIRANA, Albania — The Orthodox Church of Albania has announced the passing of Archbishop Anastasios, a prominent figure who played a crucial role in the revitalization of the church following the fall of the communist regime in 1990. He was 95 years old.
Archbishop Anastasios, who served as the head of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania and was based in Tirana, died in Athens after being admitted to Evangelismos hospital. His health had deteriorated after he was initially hospitalized in Tirana due to a viral infection. After undergoing surgery for gastrointestinal bleeding, his condition remained critical.
In a statement, the church honored Anastasios as a pivotal leader who helped rebuild the Albanian Orthodox Church from the ground up after decades of repression under communist rule. They highlighted his efforts in constructing hundreds of churches and establishing educational and charitable institutions while nurturing a new generation of clergy over his more than three-decade tenure.
Albanian President Bajram Begaj expressed sorrow over losing a “spiritual leader and a distinguished personality,” emphasizing that Anastasios’ legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who admired him.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also paid tribute to the Archbishop, noting his invaluable contributions to Orthodox Christianity that extended beyond Albania’s borders.
Born Anastasios Yannoulatos in 1929 in Greece, he arrived in Albania in 1991, determined to revive the Orthodox Church after years of oppression when the communist government suppressed all religious practices. Although the 2023 census indicates that Orthodox Christians make up about 7% of Albania’s population, many believe the actual number is higher. The nation is predominantly Muslim, with a diverse mix of religions coexisting.
After the fall of communism, religious practices resumed, but many places of worship had been confiscated, leaving believers in need of churches and mosques. The Archbishop was central in reorganizing over 400 parishes and building more than 150 new churches during his leadership.
Anastasios also prioritized interfaith dialogue and was involved in assisting healthcare, education, and social development initiatives in Albania. He educated and ordained a significant number of clergy and established youth centers in various cities, fostering a vibrant church community.
His educational background included degrees from the University of Athens and studies in Germany. Anastasios was also recognized for his academic contributions, serving as a professor and dean while publishing several books on religious topics, with many of his works translated into multiple languages.
The passing of Archbishop Anastasios marks a significant loss for the Albanian Orthodox community and highlights his lasting impact on both the church and society in Albania.
