Archbishop Anastasios, who revitalized the Albanian Orthodox Church after decades of repression, has passed away at 95 in Athens.
Archbishop Anastasios (Anastasios Yannoulatos), the head of the Albanian Orthodox Church, has passed away at the age of 95, the church announced. His death occurred in an intensive care unit in Athens due to multiple organ failure.
Initially hospitalized in Tirana on December 30, 2024, following a viral infection, his condition deteriorated, prompting a transfer to Athens for further treatment.
A Legacy of Revival
Anastasios is widely celebrated for his pivotal role in reviving the Albanian Orthodox Church after the fall of the communist regime in 1990. Arriving in Albania in 1991, he found a church in ruins, following decades of repression under the atheist regime that outlawed religious practice. Over three decades of leadership, he restored the church from its foundations.
Key accomplishments during his tenure include:
- Rebuilding hundreds of churches and monasteries.
- Establishing educational, healthcare, and charitable institutions.
- Training a new generation of clergy.
The church stated:
“With divine vision and tireless work, he renewed the church’s life, built institutions, and offered continuous service and sacrifice.”
Life and Contributions
Born in Greece in 1929, Anastasios was known for his deep theological knowledge and unwavering commitment to faith. His leadership not only strengthened the Albanian Orthodox Church but also fostered ecumenical ties across the Balkans.
In addition to his transformative work in Albania, Archbishop Anastasios attended significant events in the region, including the funeral of Serbian Patriarch Pavle in Belgrade.
Orthodoxy in Albania
Orthodox Christians make up an estimated 7% of Albania’s population, according to the 2023 census, though the church believes the number is higher. The country’s religious landscape also includes a Muslim majority, Roman Catholics, and smaller communities of other faiths.
Archbishop Anastasios will be remembered as a visionary leader who resurrected a church from suppression and left a legacy of faith, unity, and service.
