President Begaj Attends the Enthronement Ceremony of His Beatitude Joan Pelushi as the Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania
President Bajram Begaj of the Republic of Albania participated today in the enthronement ceremony of His Beatitude Joan Pelushi as the Archbishop of Tirana, Durrës, and all Albania.
Before Albanian and international clergy and Orthodox believers, the President congratulated His Beatitude Joan on ascending to the highest throne of the Church, calling this day historic for the Autocephaly of the Albanian Orthodox Church and for the entire Albanian society.
“May you be a leader who builds bridges, promotes coexistence, strengthens faith, and spreads love, peace, hope, and justice among people! May God be with you at every step of this noble journey!” – wished the President of the Republic.
President Begaj described the enthronement of Archbishop Joan as a new chapter in the spiritual life of the country that begins with hope, faith, and responsibility, while also expressing gratitude towards the previous Archbishop, Anastas, for his wise and dedicated service.
During his speech at the solemn ceremony, the Head of State appreciated the role of the Church fathers in preserving the Autocephaly and their patriotic and nationalistic contribution throughout the state formation process and during the dark years of the dictatorial regime.
The President of the Republic also highlighted the importance of the Church, not only as a religious institution but also as a guide and protector of spiritual, cultural, and national values.
President Begaj invited all citizens to build a fairer, more humble, more united, and more brotherly society while ensuring state support for everything that serves the good of the people, strengthens harmony and coexistence among faiths, and enhances the understanding and values that unite us.
