Archbishop Anastasios in Intensive Care: Global Concern for the Orthodox Leader's Health

The health of His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania has taken a critical turn, sparking widespread concern within the Orthodox Christian community and beyond.

The 95-year-old prelate is currently in intensive care at Evangelismos Hospital in Athens.

According to a medical update issued by the hospital, "the health condition of His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios of Albania has deteriorated rapidly, and he has been transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where he is intubated."

A Battle Against Illness

Archbishop Anastasios, who has a history of medical challenges, was admitted to Evangelismos Hospital on January 3. Since then, he has been under the vigilant care of a specialised medical team, undergoing necessary tests and receiving tailored treatments.

Despite his frail condition, the Archbishop has continued to receive visitors, including members of the Permanent Holy Synod of the Church of Greece. Metropolitans Ierotheos of Nafpaktos and Agios Vlasios and Ignatios of Demetrias and Almiros visited on behalf of the Holy Synod, offering prayers and the well-wishes of Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece.

In response, Archbishop Anastasios expressed his deep gratitude for the support and prayers, stating his appreciation for the global outpouring of love during this difficult time.

Support from Greece's Leadership

The gravity of the Archbishop's condition has drawn the attention of Greece’s political and religious leaders. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Archbishop Ieronymos personally visited Evangelismos on Sunday to receive updates from Professor Anastasia Kotanidou, a leading expert in pulmonology and intensive care. Earlier, Minister of Education and Religious Affairs Kyriakos Pierrakakis also visited the hospital to show his support.

Archbishop Anastasios is internationally celebrated for his leadership and contributions to interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding. Over decades of service, he has become a symbol of unity and hope, commanding deep respect within the Orthodox Church and across religious boundaries.

As his condition remains critical, prayers continue to pour in from around the world. The Orthodox faithful, along with leaders of various religious and political communities, remain united in hope for the Archbishop’s recovery.