During the first half of the month of August, 2012, Archbishop Anastasios, accompanied by the Bishop of Amantia, Nathanael, and the Bishop of Bylis, His Grace Asti, made visits to the Metropolises of Korça and Gjirokastra. Everywhere His Beatitude was received with great respect, love and enthusiasm by numerous Orthodox people. With warm, direct words he offered directions, support, and comfort and inspired all the believers at the Divine Liturgies, but also during the prayers to the Virgin Mary, at Vespers and during personal discussions.
On August 6th, for the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, he concelebrated with the Metropolitan of Korça, His Grace John, in Polena. The next day, the three hierarchs concelebrated in the Church of St. Nicholas in Voskopoja, which was built in the 18th century. They also visited the Church of Saint Nicholas in Boboshtica which is under construction, and the location where the first building of the new monastery is being erected.
On August 16th, accompanied by the Metropolitan of Gjirokastra, His Grace Dhimitrithe visit to Gjirokastra began. That evening, the service of Paraklesis was held in the newly established Church of the Resurrection in Gjirokastra, many believers of all age participated. The students of the Church schools prepared special programs that were conducted in a warm and joyful atmosphere. On August 14th, the hierarchs led the service of the Vespers in Derviçan in the Church of the Dormition of Theotokos which was also celebrating its feast day. The next day they concelebrated in Finiqi, in Saranda.
Everywhere His Beatitude was very cordially welcomed. In his short words of greeting, the representative from the parish of Finiqi said, “You and the others were expecting us to welcome you to our village. We did not do this. We say welcome to strangers and passerby. You’re not one of those. You are our spiritual father and you are in your home. You’re never away from here. You have found a place in everyone’s hearts and you fill us full of joy and grace, from what you have in abundance in your heart as Archbishop. You have inspired and helped us all, as a reward we offer you our enthusiasm and commitment.
21.8.2013
