Abp. John Addresses Modern Anxiety

Photo: Elvis Gorica/Orthodox Church of Albania

TIRANA, ALBANIA — In an interview with the Church publication “Ngjallja,” Abp. John of Tirana, Durrës and All Albania addressed the rise of fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and depression in modern society, stating that such struggles are not new but must be confronted through faith and spiritual life.

He distinguished between fear and anxiety, explaining that reasonable fear can protect against danger, while irrational fear may become phobia. Anxiety, he said, often relates to concerns about the past or future rather than immediate threats. When these conditions dominate, he noted, both medical and spiritual guidance may be necessary.

The Archbishop described the “fear of God” as reverence — “the beginning of wisdom” — rather than terror, adding that spiritual illumination gradually dispels other fears. He emphasized that closeness to God reduces despair and pointed to the Gospel image of Peter walking on water as a lesson in maintaining focus on Christ.

He also highlighted Confession as a source of spiritual healing and affirmed, “There is undoubtedly hope.”

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. John of Albania opened the Triodion with a call to humility and repentance. 

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