Metropolitan Nathanael consecrates Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Albania

Metropolitan Nathanael of Gjirokastër consecrated the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos in the village of Dhivër, in the municipality of Finiq, with the participation of faithful from the village and the surrounding area.

Since assuming responsibility for the Metropolis of Gjirokastër, Metropolitan Nathanael has presided over the opening and consecration of numerous churches, as well as the consecration of Holy Altars.

These initiatives form part of his efforts to promote the liturgical and spiritual renewal of the Metropolis, a region with which he has longstanding ties. From 1991 until 2012, he served there as a preacher, regularly visiting villages throughout the area.

In his address to the faithful, Metropolitan Nathanael spoke about the role of the Theotokos in the life of humanity, emphasizing her maternal care and intercession.

“As the Mother of the Lord and the Mother of all the faithful, through her love and intercessions she is always close to every human being,” he said.

The Metropolitan encouraged the faithful to follow the example of the Most Holy Theotokos by living “with faith, humility, love and devotion to God,” while continually seeking her…