Image
The Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, Tirana, Albania, Photo: Xanthi Morfi/WCC

The Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, Tirana, Albania, Photo: Xanthi Morfi/WCC

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, in a letter to the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania, extended condolences on behalf of the WCC fellowship upon news of the devastating earthquake that struck on 26 November.

“I write to you with great sadness after receiving news of the strong earthquake that struck the country of Albania, and the ongoing news, as rescue operations continue, of the people who have perished and the many who have been injured,” reads the letter, which Tveit addressed to His Beatitude Anastasios Archbishop of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania. “The poignant images of devastation and destruction grieve us greatly, as do the accounts of families left destitute by this event, especially as winter fast approaches.”

Tveit extended prayers and condolences to the Albanian people and to all those who have lost family members and friends in this disaster.

“We kindly ask you to share our message of support and condolence with Christians and with all people of good will in Albania, including religious communities of other faiths with whom you work so closely,” concludes the letter.

 

Letter of the WCC General Secretary to the Orthodox Church of Albania, 26 November 2019

Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania