Archbishop Ioannis of Albania has urged believers to embrace repentance as a path to inner renewal during the Easter period, stressing that true spiritual transformation requires courage and humility.

In a sermon delivered on Holy Wednesday and reported by Radio Ngjallja, the Archbishop highlighted repentance as a central spiritual experience of Holy Week. He emphasized that the period is not only about recalling Gospel events but also about personal choice—between turning back to God or falling away.

Drawing on biblical examples, he contrasted the repentant sinner with Judas Iscariot, noting that “one found salvation, while the other lost it,” underscoring the consequences of human decisions.

According to the Archbishop, repentance in Christian teaching goes far beyond regret. “Repentance is the restoration and renewal of our relationship with God,” he said, describing it as a profound change in both mindset and way of life.

He called on the faithful to engage in deep self-reflection during this year’s Easter season, urging them to “have the courage to repent.” He observed that people often “have the boldness to sin, but feel ashamed to repent,” adding that humility—not pride—is the key to spiritual renewal.

The sermon also stressed that genuine repentance does not lead to despair but brings freedom and joy. In contrast, what he described as “the repentance of the proud” traps individuals in self-centeredness and ultimately leads to hopelessness.

Concluding his message, Archbishop Ioannis encouraged believers to focus not only on outward Easter celebrations but also on inner transformation, reminding them that, according to Church teaching, repentance restores one’s connection with God and offers hope for salvation.