“In our epoch, in the public statements, the emphasis on human dignity prevails. However, the fact which proclaims to us, with unique intensity, the value of human life, is this which certainly dominates the feast of Christmas, that the Son of the living, unapproachable and almighty God, assumed human nature and became man. This remains the timeless central message of the Nativity of Christ. God did not sens angels to save the world; He did not take the form of another creature, but became man. In this way He clearly emphasized the value of human life itself and revealed the sanctity of every human being.” Thus began the tradional message of Archbishop Anastasios, that was read at the end of the festive Divine Liturgy, which took place at the new “Resurrection of Christ” Cathedral. His Beatitude concelebrated with other members of the Holy Synod, the Bishop of Kruja, Anthony; the Bishop of Apollonia, Nicholas; the Bishop of Amantia, Nathaneil, and the Bishop of Bylisi, Asti.
The atmosphere of Christmas had been felt for days everywhere in the capital, even before the 25th of December. This Christmas was made more special by the numerous activities with children, such as concerts, caroling etc.; and also the charitable activities, distributing gifts and food that they themselves had collected. This atmosphere was also emphasized throughout the whole special serviles of this period, such as the Service of the Anointing with Holy Oil, the Service of the Hours etc.
The services culminated on Christmas Day with the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil, which began at 6:30 am at the “Resurrection of Christ” Cathedral. It was packed with people early on, but also throughout the day the river of believers did not stop coming to light candles and pray. Those who could not come to Church had the chance to participated in the Liturgy with the live transmission from the Albanian Radio Television (RTSH), and also through live connections and with chronicles on other television channels.
The Christmas Message of Archbishop Anastasios focused on the “inconceivable value of human life”, which is emphasized in a very special way in this feast, focusing in particular also on the fight against indifference towards other people and the importance of solidarity, of respect and help for others. And the dimension of eternal life that the feast brings was also emphasized: “…to instill a life more complete than the biological by granting to the human person life itself “abundantly, namely, the most holy, perfect communion of the Spirit”, according to St. Cyril of Alexandria.
