Archbishop of Albania in critical condition after health decline

Athens, January 9, 2025 – The health condition of Anastasios Yanulatos, the Archbishop of Albania, has worsened significantly, sparking concern across Albania and beyond.

In a statement released by the hospital in Athens, where the 85-year-old Archbishop is being treated, it was confirmed that he had been intubated and his condition is now critical.

"The health condition of His Beatitude, Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, has rapidly deteriorated, and he has been transferred to the intensive care unit, where he is currently intubated," the hospital said in a brief statement.

Anastasios, who has served as Archbishop of Albania since 1992, is a prominent figure in the Eastern Orthodox Church and a key figure in Albania's religious and cultural life. Under his leadership, the Church has played a crucial role in Albania's post-communist recovery, guiding the nation through a period of spiritual and societal rebuilding.