An international theological and scholarly conference dedicated to the memory of Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana and All Albania has commenced in Tirana, as reported by the press service of the Albanian Church. The forum, titled "Archbishop Anastasios: Greatness in Acts and Teaching," is taking place at the Logos University College and marks the first anniversary of Archbishop Anastasios's passing, a significant figure in Orthodox Christianity from the late 20th to early 21st century.

The opening ceremony attracted representatives from various religious communities in Albania, including Orthodox, Catholic, Muslim, and Protestant leaders, along with diplomats, theologians, and public figures. Participants received greetings from notable figures including Patriarch Bartholomew, representatives of the World Council of Churches, and hierarchs from local Orthodox churches.

In his keynote address, Archbishop John emphasized that it was during Archbishop Anastasios’s leadership that the Albanian Orthodox Church, which had been nearly obliterated during the communist regime, was effectively restored. Since the early 1990s, hundreds of churches have been built or renovated in Albania, alongside the establishment of theological institutions, schools, kindergartens, medical centers, and the first Orthodox university in the country.

Conference attendees highlighted Archbishop Anastasios’s significant contributions beyond Albania, noting his role as a Orthodox missionary in Africa, theologian, interfaith dialogue expert, and a leader within the World Council of Churches. His works on mission, globalization, and the role of Christianity in the contemporary world have been translated into multiple languages.

Special attention at the forum is given to the experience of religious coexistence in Albania, which speakers noted has largely been facilitated by Archbishop Anastasios's consistent stance that religion should "heal wounds, not ignite conflicts." The conference activities will continue over the coming days, featuring scholarly presentations, discussions, and liturgical events dedicated to Archbishop Anastasios's legacy and his contributions to the revival of church and social life in Albania.