Today, 40 days after the passing of former Archbishop Anastas Janullatos, his last will and testament has been read, revealing the final wishes of a man who dedicated his life to faith, service, and the Albanian Orthodox Church.
A Life Dedicated to the Church
In his testament, Archbishop Anastas expressed deep gratitude to the Church of Albania for its love and commitment. He stated unequivocally that he owned no movable or immovable assets, as everything acquired throughout his life had been placed in the service of charitable works.
"I have no personal wealth; everything has been dedicated to the works of love. My financial deposits as an Archbishop belong to the Church of Albania," he declared.
The Distribution of His Financial Assets
Archbishop Anastas instructed that his financial deposits be allocated in two key ways:
- Completion of the "Resurrection of Christ" Cathedral in Tirana – Half of the total funds will be used to ensure the completion of this sacred project.
- Support for Clergy and Youth Programs – The remaining half will be preserved and invested responsibly, with the generated income being used to support clergy salaries and the development of youth programs within the Church.
Additionally, the copyright proceeds from his books will be deposited in the Inter-Orthodox Center "Porefthentes," ensuring that his theological contributions continue to benefit future generations.
Legacy and Final Wishes
Archbishop Anastas appointed his successor as the executor of his will, along with Metropolitan Nathanail of Amantia, the Secretary-General of the Holy Synod. He requested that his few personal belongings be distributed to his chosen collaborators as mementos of their shared service. His extensive collection of books will be donated to the Orthodox Library "Resurrection of Christ" and the Theological Academy’s library, with some volumes also designated for other Metropolises and the "Porefthentes" Center in Athens.
A Heartfelt Farewell and Message of Forgiveness
His testament is not only a legal document but also a spiritual reflection. He expressed deep gratitude to his parents, mentors, colleagues, and the people he served, acknowledging their support throughout his spiritual journey. He also sought forgiveness from those he may have hurt during his lifetime, whether intentionally or unintentionally, and offered his own forgiveness to those who had wronged him.
"With my limited strength, I tried to serve the opening of the Orthodox horizon to our apostolic and ecumenical responsibilities... I dedicated myself to the restoration of the long-suffering Church of Albania, which I loved with all my heart. Whatever has been achieved is due to the grace of God."
A Final Blessing
In his closing words, Archbishop Anastas offered his final blessing to his spiritual children across Albania, Greece, Africa, and beyond, citing the words of Ephesians 3:14-19:
"May Christ dwell in your hearts through faith, that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge."
He ended with a humble plea: "Please, do not cease praying that God may have mercy on me, His sinful and unworthy servant, and accept me in the infinity of His love."
A Testament of Faith and Humility
The will of Archbishop Anastas Janullatos is a powerful testimony of his lifelong mission of faith, service, and love. His legacy will continue to live on through the institutions he built, the people he inspired, and the spiritual foundation he laid for the Church of Albania.