The Orthodox Church of Albania marked the beginning of the new ecclesiastical year on 1 September with a spirit of hope and optimism, reflecting the timeless tradition of the Church.
Unlike the secular New Year celebrated on 1 January, the ecclesiastical year begins on 1 September, a practice known as the Indiction, which was established by Emperor Constantine the Great and continues to be observed to this day.
The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by His Eminence Metropolitan Nathaniel of Amantia, joined by His Eminence Metropolitan John of Korça. In his homily, Metropolitan Nathaniel emphasised the spiritual challenge of the modern age: “The danger lies in being enslaved to lifeless, materialistic routines, devoid of spirit and the breath of a higher life.”
He encouraged the faithful to embrace the new year as a time to renew their spiritual journey and to root their lives in faith, hope, and divine grace.
By Fr. Ilias Makos