The Fifth Inter-Orthodox Monastic Meeting opened on October 13 at the Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni on the Greek island of Lefkada, bringing together Orthodox clergy and monastic representatives to discuss the theme “Orthodox Monasticism and Mission.”

A central focus of the gathering is the spiritual and missionary legacy of the late Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, who played a pivotal role in rebuilding the Albanian Orthodox Church and advancing Orthodox missionary work in Africa.

The opening ceremony was attended by Archbishop John of Tirana, Durrës and All Albania, the current primate of the Albanian Orthodox Church, according to the Orthodoxia News Agency. Lefkada holds particular significance for the gathering because Archbishop Anastasios’s paternal family originated from the island.

Clergy and local officials addressed the opening session, highlighting Anastasios’s contributions to Orthodox missionary work in Africa and the revival of church life in Albania following decades of persecution and restrictions. Speakers described his ministry as an example of service to humanity, peaceful coexistence and a commitment to overcoming national boundaries.

Archbishop John delivered a presentation examining his predecessor’s role in restoring the Albanian Orthodox Church. Participants also emphasized that missionary work remains one of the essential responsibilities of Orthodox monasticism.

The meeting has drawn representatives from several Orthodox Churches. Metropolitan Gregory of Ankara represents the Ecumenical Patriarchate, while Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Chalkida represents the Church of Greece. The gathering was organized by Metropolitan Theophilos of Lefkada and Ithaca and Archimandrite Nikephoros, abbot of the monastery.

On the opening day, the monastery also welcomed a major Orthodox relic: the right hand of St. Nektarios of Aegina, the Bishop of Pentapolis revered throughout the Orthodox world for his ascetic life and numerous accounts of assistance granted to the faithful.

The program includes presentations on relations between bishops and monasteries, the impact of contemporary society on monastic life, and the use of artificial intelligence to spread the Gospel. Participants will also examine missionary work in Africa and Latin America, alongside the enduring influence of Mount Athos on the wider Orthodox world.

By bringing together representatives of different Orthodox Churches, the meeting seeks to reflect on how monastic traditions can respond to contemporary challenges while remaining faithful to their spiritual foundations. The legacy of Archbishop Anastasios provides a central point of reference for discussions on evangelization, inter-Christian understanding and service across cultural and national boundaries.