The Primate of the Albanian Orthodox Church thanked the Ecumenical Patriarch for his long-standing support during his visit to Cappadocia

The Primate of the Albanian Orthodox Church, Archbishop John of Tirana, has expressed official gratitude to Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople for the unwavering support that the Mother Church has given to the Church of Albania over the years. According to Orthodoxia News Agency, the solemn meeting and joint prayer of the hierarchs took place in Cappadocia on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

The service, which was led by Archbishop John in the presence of the Patriarch of Constantinople, was held in the historic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the city of Naples (Nevşehir), currently functioning as an art object. In his address, Patriarch Bartholomew noted with deep excitement that in this holy place the souls of the ancestors continue to glorify the Resurrection of Christ. He emphasized that the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region is a «treasury of life and freedom» that has for centuries contributed to the peaceful coexistence of different cultures and traditions.

During his remarks in English, Archbishop John described the visit to Cappadocia as an extremely significant event. He touched upon the historical trials that the Albanian Church has gone through and its current revival. The head of the Albanian Church emphasized the role of Patriarch Bartholomew in supporting his predecessor and expressed hope that these close ties will be maintained in the future. «If we have the Church in our hearts, no one can harm us,» Archbishop John emphasized, wishing the Patriarch strength in his responsible ministry.

At the end of the official part, Patriarch Bartholomew also addressed the audience in Turkish, thanking the local authorities for granting permission to hold the service and noting the high level of restoration of the church.