In the year 1981, a group of soldiers from the village of Droja in Laç set out to demolish the remaining part of the siege at the St. Anthony Church, in Albanian known as Kisha e Laçit (The Church of Laçi).
 |
| The Church of Lac |
For the first time, the destruction had occurred in 1967, a time when the communist state of that era declared war on religious faith.
Although a portion of the building had been partially demolished, believers still visited over the years, which was a concern for the regime. For this reason, the soldiers were ordered to destroy the walls so that no one would think of making a pilgrimage.
After demolishing a section of the siege, the group of 32 soldiers inexplicably became paralyzed from the waist down. Some soldiers were sent by the authorities for treatment in Austria for 6 months, while others were treated at the Military Hospital in Tirana.
They all suffered consequences, only getting back on their feet after extensive treatment. The phenomenon remained unexplained and shrouded in mystery.
 |
| Pilgrims going up to the Church of Lac |
The story quickly spread in Laç, being told as something mystical. The authorities of that time claimed that the fault for the unusual event lay with contaminated food, as a result of poisoning, but this fact was never scientifically accepted. The story remains shrouded in mystery, even to this day...
The St. Anthony Church
The St. Anthony Church, also known as Kisha e Shna Ndout or Kisha e Laçit in Albanian, has a rich history. Originally constructed in the 14th century, the church underwent various transformations over the centuries. Initially dedicated to St. Mary, it was later renamed after Anthony of Padua in 1557.
Unfortunately, in 1971, during the era of communist rule, the church was destroyed. However, in the 1990s, following the fall of communism, efforts were made to rebuild it, restoring its significance to the Albanian town of Laç.
Throughout its history, the church has been affiliated with the Franciscan order. Over the years, it has been graced by the presence of numerous esteemed clergy members, including Shtjefën Gjeçovi, Vinçens Prennushi, Klement Miraj, Robert Ashta, and Zef Pllumi.
Pilgrimage to the Church of Laç
The pilgrimage on foot begins at the foot of the stairs. The most devout believers, those with significant health issues or a major concern, prefer to climb the stairs on foot, as it is considered a sacrifice. The journey on foot is long and arduous.
Upon reaching the hilltop, pilgrims enter the Church where they also pray for the reason that brought them there. You can stay for as long as you need.
Afterwards, pilgrims visit the cave of St. Blaise nearby. Inside, you can leave clothes, photographs, documents, or similar items related to your concern. Just like in the Church, you can also pray in the cave. At the exit of the cave, a priest stands ready to touch the believers and accept their prayers, so to speak.
Pilgrims ascend once again and perform the ritual of blessed water. Outside, there are two fountains specifically for this purpose. With your hand, you touch the water and then rub the area of your body where you have a problem. For example, those suffering from chronic headaches rub their heads. Then, a cross is made.
Finally, candles are lit in a special area outside. You can take the candles with you, or you can buy them from vendors nearby. You can also buy various good luck charms, or take a stone from the holy place or blessed water to bring home.
Visits to the Church of Laç should always be done in groups. So, you either go on a Tuesday, or three Tuesdays, five Tuesdays, and so on. If you have made up your mind to go, you must go for sure. Pilgrimage to the Church of Laç cannot be left to chance or postponed.
There are rumors that women cannot enter the Church while menstruating, but this practice is not followed by everyone.
The most important advice of all is to believe, feel the energy of the place, and have an open heart. Pilgrimage to the Church of Laç is a spiritual experience more than religious, and pragmatism is not at all useful.
This year, don't forget to add a mask, and gloves, and certainly avoid crowds to your church visit.