Tirana in these days is filled with many festive lights and colors. All people walk on the boulevards and on the alleys of the capital city preparing to celebrate with their families as well as they can, this period of Christmas and New Years of 2007.

To make the atmosphere even more beautiful, the youth of the Orthodox Church of Albania organized the festival of Christian and traditional Albanian songs and dances on the afternoon of 26 December, in one of the halls of the National Historical Museums. This was the ninth annual festival, changing the national activity at the end of the year in a reach tradition.

The first on stage were the children of the “Protagonists” Albanian-American elementary school. They were applauded by all present, because in their eyes everybody sees the future of Albania. Later on, the hosts of the festival, members of the Orthodox Youth of Tirana, Vasil Koço and Ina Gjata said before those who were present:

 “9 years ago in this city started the journey a beautiful youth activity. Now we can call it even traditional, but on stage you will see new faces and will experience the enthusiasm and the zeal of the young people of Christ. God has not given us the spirit of fear, but the spirit of hope and love. This biblical verse is the advice which our loved and honored Archbishop Anastasios reminds us of everywhere we are. But he is not only a spiritual adviser for us young people, but is an inspiration for all the believers for a life in God.

The time we have wouldn’t be sufficient to express our gratitude and thankfulness for the shepherd of our Church, who has given all his strength to rebuild not only the church as a building, but also the church in our hearts. Thank you your Beatitude for everything you have done for us”.

With these words the hosts thanked Archbishop Anastasios, who was present at this festival, watching it attentively and with love. Christmas is the feast of everybody. Christ came in this world to give us faith, hope and love. Also, Christmas is the spirit of gifts. During this celebration all the people try to give something to their relatives, while Christ asks only for a small gift, to make our hearts a manger for Him.

To make a special gift for all the people that were present, 11 selected youth groups from four dioceses of Albania vivified the atmosphere, singing Christian songs and introducing traditional songs and dances of the regions which they represented. On the stage came the youth group of Vlora, Tirana, Gjinari (Elbasan), Durrësi, Kavaja, Gramshi, Fikasi (Elbasan), Prespa (Korça), Berati, Gjirokastra and Këlcyra (Permet).

To evaluate these groups a jury was created made up of clergy, musicians and members of the Orthodox Youth Group lead by Mrs. Costanca Luis. For around two hours the youth groups presented with dignity, creating a nice atmosphere receiving much applause from the spectators. After the performance of the groups, Archbishop Anastasios addressed the festival and congratulated the youth groups for the high level.

     The first prize- said the Archbishop - is given to the audience. This collective work creates a collaborative and brotherly atmosphere, which should continue even longer. We are gathered in the name of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. Let us not forget that the apostles left everything for Christ, you young people should transmit this Christian truth everywhere you are.

     We are in a corner of the Balkans, but we are not a separated group, but part of a vivid Catholic and Apostolic Church. This Church has the responsibility for the entire universe, embracing it with love and affection. Try to get to know Christ personally. You need prayers, meditation and studies. This is the greatest gift that you can give in this celebration. Christ, who is the Sun of Righteousness, should shine and radiate in your actions and example” - so Archbishop Anastasios ended his speech.

At the end, the jury announced the winners of this festival. The consolation prize was given to Gramshi, the third prize was given to Kavaja, the second to Berati and the winner of the festival was Tirana.

   Isidor Koti

   Translated by: Gabriela Bezhani & Nathan Hoppe