Even this year the feast of St. John the Vladimir was celebrated with grandeur to honor the respective saint, at the monastery which carries his name, in Shijon village near the city of Elbasan. There were present many Orthodox believers gathered from the whole country who attended the services conducted on this occasion. Like every year, there were also faithful who came from different regions of the Balkans, like Montenegro, Serbia, Greece, etc to attend the celebrations.
Unlike before, this year the area of Elbasani, Shpati and Librazhdi had its own Metropolitan, His Grace Andon.
The series of services started with the agrypnia, on the evening of June 3, which lasted until the early morning hours. It was led by the Bishop of Elbasani, Shpati and Librazhdi, His Grace Andon. On the morning of June 4, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated and it was led by the Bishop of Amantia, His Grace Nathaniel. At the end of the Liturgy, the procession of the relics of the saint was held around the church and was attended by all the participants. At the end, following the tradition, the faithful were scattered the cotton which wrapped the relics of the saint.
On the feast day, various representatives of other religions came to extend their wishes along with local and central authorities, Mr. Qazim Sejdini, the Mayor of Elbasan, Mr. Arben Kamami, the County Prefect, MPs etc. Also, a festive concert was organized with the support of the municipality on the occasion of the feast.
The Feast of St. John, the Vladimir transmits the message of brotherhood and friendship between peoples as well as between different religious faiths. Through this saint’s intervention, may God grant His blessings and joy to all those who honor and celebrate Him.
Translated by: Juljana Kodheli
