On 8 July 2025, the Orthodox faithful of Tirana gathered for the sacred feast held in honour of Saint Procopius, the protector of the city, at the church currently under construction bearing his name.
The Festal Divine Liturgy was celebrated by His Beatitude Archbishop Ioannis of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania, concelebrated with His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanail of Amantia, His Grace Bishop Anastasios of Kruja, and clergy from the Holy Archdiocese.
A few days earlier, Archbishop Ioannis had visited the site to witness the progress of construction firsthand. The work is being overseen by renowned businessman Mr. Mihal Delijorgji, who also serves as the ktitor (main benefactor) of the church.
During his visit, the Archbishop emphasised the significance of organising the feast day at this holy site, despite the church still being in the construction phase. Under the supervision of Bishop Anastasios, Protosyncellus of the Archdiocese, all necessary preparations were made in a short period of time to ensure the event would proceed with spiritual beauty and inspiration.
A large number of faithful participated in this meaningful celebration, expressing gratitude for the Church’s ongoing efforts to restore this sacred space, a place that was once lost during the dark years of atheism in Albania.
In his homily, Archbishop Ioannis declared: “We thank God for this church dedicated to Saint Procopius. We thank our late Archbishop Anastasios for the effort he made to establish it. This church will be a blessing for us all, because Saint Procopius is the protector of Tirana. We pray for his intercession. If we remember him every day and pray with a pure heart, every prayer will be heard, for the saint is truly a miracle-worker.”
Photographs: Radio “Ngjallja”
