The orthodox faithful of Gjirokastër celebrated Christmas prayerfully in anticipation of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. Preparations for the big event started several days before in all the churches of the diocese. There were signs posted on the streets wishing everyone a “Merry Christmas”. A wonderful concert was held in the main hall of the Kino-theatre organized by the Metropolis of Gjirokastër in cooperation with the mayor. There were many political and religious personalities as well as average faithful citizens from the South of Albania in attendance.
On December 24th, during Vespers, the Metropolitan of Gjirokastër, His Grace Dimitrios invited the orthodox faithful to attend the service of the Divine Liturgy which would be celebrated the next day in the church, “Transformation of the Savior”. He asked everyone to attend this joyful event. During the early morning hours, the faithful came to take part in the liturgy. The orthodox youth choir and the adult choir mingled beautifully in common worship to God, chanting glorifying psalms to the Savior. The Metropolitan read Archbishop Anastasios’ message to the congregation, wishing them much love, faith and hope for the future.
The joyful atmosphere continued with visits to each others homes, and greetings between the clergy and the faithful who celebrate together in harmony according to holy orthodox tradition.
This was the second year His Grace Dimitrios organized an activity for young people from the south of Albania. They were invited to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s together. In attendance were those who contributed to the activities in the Metropolis and those who were not part of any particular group and those who were studying away from home. Everyone had a special day with His Grace.
On Sunday, December 30th the Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the chapel of the high school in the Church “HolyCross”. It was served by His Grace Dimitrios for over eighty young people. He reminded them regarding the importance of a spiritual life – a life that joins us with God.
After Liturgy, the youth gathered in the library of the high school to attend a gathering in which special guests gave talks about basic issues of faith and holy orthodox tradition. Odhise Çerkezi, the literature teacher at the high school, spoke of “not accumulating treasures for ourselves on earth…” (The Gospel of Matthew). The teachings of the Church have always served to lead humanity throughout history. Mr. Çerkezi cited examples of famous writers, who wrote stories based on biblical history. These literary works had the goal of getting people to have a desire to be closer to God. The next speaker was a professor from the University of Janina, Apostolos Papajoani. He spoke of the importance of orthodox tradition. “We have many things in common, one of which being the orthodox faith which has historic roots. And in relation to the traditional elements, you (the youth) should not only be continuously reminded of them, but also to pass them on to the next generation, for they will be your traditions”. “St. Cosmas gave us a rule to live by called “Christian humanism”; that is to be righteous, sincere and truthful in whatever you say, do or feel. If people delude you, turn away and move to others. The basics are the same; faith, hope and love and the biggest is surely love.”
After the presentations, there were comments and discussions with the Metropolitan and the other guests regarding spiritual living. Another topic widely discussed was the proposed schedule of activities for the orthodox youth of the Diocese. His Grace, Dimitrios asked for ideas to attract more young people and to suggest other activities some students may have had elsewhere. Activities such as catechism, cultural and sports events, camps and excursions have already been planned. His Grace also mentioned there would be a 10th anniversary celebration for the church high school “Holy Cross” this new year.
At meeting’s end, everyone shared in the blessing of having lunch together – a gift from the Metropolitan.
By Isidor Koti
Translated by Juljana Pici
Edited by Melanie Linderman
