Slug: new-archbishop-albania-joan-pelushi
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Article:
Joan Pelushi has been appointed as the new Archbishop of the Albanian Orthodox Church, becoming the first Albanian to hold the position since the fall of Communism. The announcement of Pelushi’s appointment was met with tears and emotions, signaling the significance of this historic moment for both the church and the nation. His official enthronement ceremony will take place on March 29.
The Holy Synod of the Albanian Orthodox Church elected Pelushi, the Metropolitan of Korça, to replace Anastasios Janullatos, who held the position for 33 years. Janullatos passed away on January 25, 2025, at the age of 95, following a prolonged illness and hospitalization in Athens.
Pelushi, who has an impressive academic background, studied at the Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in Boston, USA, where he graduated with a Master of Divinity degree. His studies were supported by a scholarship established by the Albanian-American community in memory of the prominent Albanian priest and scholar, Fan Noli.
Before his appointment, Pelushi served as a professor and dean at the Theological Academy of the Albanian Orthodox Church. His appointment marks a significant step for the Albanian Orthodox Church as it continues to evolve and reconnect with its roots in post-Communist Albania.
