Theological Education

    

Because the Communist regime's malice toward religion was focused, in particular, on clergymen, the ranks of Orthodox clergy were decimated during this period.  In the 1940's, only 440 Orthodox priests served the Church.  In 1967, all of the Church's activities were outlawed and all of her facilities were closed.  Priests who were caught performing their duties for the Church were killed or imprisoned.
In 1992, a theological seminary for the training of new clergy was opened in an old, run-down hotel in Durrës.  In 1996, the school relocated to new facilities at the St. Vlash-Durrës.  Women, who will serve as lay leaders in the Church, also now receive theological training at the school.
Seeing the need of the young generation’s ecclesiastical education, Archbishop Anastasios enabled opening of two high schools for boys.In September 1998 opened in Gjirokastër the Ecclesiastical High School “Holy Cross”, situated in a complex of buildings with contemporary conditions and a dormitory.
In September 2007 opened also in Sukth of Durrës the second Ecclesiastical High School “Holy Cross” situated in a picturesque and suitable building with contemporary conditions and a dormitory.

Update: February 2008