Abp. John Honors Late Abp. Anastasios at European Parliament
Abp. John honored the late Abp. Anastasios at the European Parliament, highlighting his role in rebuilding Albania’s Orthodox Church and promoting interreligious dialogue.
BRUSSELS — Abp. John of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania held a series of high-level meetings in Brussels today, highlighted by a special event at the European Parliament titled “The Life, Work, and Legacy of the Late Archbishop Anastasios.” The event was of particular significance, as it marked the first time the European Parliament has hosted an event dedicated to the life and work of an Orthodox hierarch. The gathering brought together Members of the European Parliament, ministers, diplomats, and officials from European institutions, with Albania represented by Plenipotentiary Minister Admira Jorgji.
In his keynote address, Abp. John paid tribute to Abp. Anastasios, recalling his arrival in Albania in 1991 and his tireless efforts to restore the Orthodox Church after decades of persecution. He emphasized that Anastasios’ true legacy lies not only in the churches, schools, hospitals, and social centers he rebuilt, but in the lives he touched and the model of interreligious dialogue he established—a model recognized across Europe.
The event marked the first European Parliament occasion dedicated to an Orthodox hierarch, highlighting international recognition of Anastasios’ role in Albania’s democratic renewal and the promotion of European values.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. John was recognized for leadership and service.
