The End of an Era: Metropolitan Dimitrije of Gjirokastra Passes Away After a Tough Battle
Metropolitan Dimitrije Dikbasanis of the Albanian Orthodox Church in Gjirokastra passed away last night at the University General Hospital in Ioannina. The cause? Multiple organ failure due to complications from a respiratory infection and endocarditis. This marks the end of a significant chapter for the Orthodox community in Albania.
Born in Serres, Greece, Dimitrije dedicated his life to the church from a young age. He studied theology at Aristotle University in Thessaloniki and was later tonsured a monk at the Monastery of Saint Catherine on Mount Sinai in Egypt. His work in cataloging and systematizing ancient manuscripts there is considered one of the monastery’s greatest treasures.
After Archbishop Anastas arrived in Albania in 1992, Dimitrije joined the missionary efforts of the autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania. He served as protosyncellus and later as Metropolitan of Gjirokastra, serving with unwavering dedication.
He was also deputy president of the educational foundation “Spirit of Love,” founded by the late Archbishop Anastas, playing a key role in advancing Orthodox education in Albania.
The funeral service will be held on July 1st at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Gjirokastra, with the Chapel of the Holy Archbishopric in Tirana already serving as a place of prayer for his soul.
This news has shaken the Orthodox community, which loses one of its most devoted and influential leaders. Dimitrije’s death reminds us of the fragility of human life and the importance of dedication and service to the community.
If you have any stories or memories of Metropolitan Dimitrije, feel free to share them — such figures deserve to be remembered and talked about long after they’re gone.
Why Was Dimitrije Important?
- Born in Greece but devoted his entire life to Orthodoxy in Albania.
- Worked at the Monastery of Saint Catherine, preserving and studying ancient manuscripts.
- One of the first missionaries of the autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania after 1992.
- Contributed to education through the “Spirit of Love” foundation.
This isn’t just news of a death — it’s a call to reflect on how vital church leaders are in preserving faith and culture during tough times.
Is the Orthodox Church in Albania Ready for a Future Without Dimitrije?
His death leaves a void. Who will carry on his work? How will the church face modern challenges? These questions now trouble believers and church authorities alike.
Meanwhile, let’s remember Dimitrije as a man who sacrificed much for his faith and community. May he rest in eternal glory and thanks for all he did.
If you’ve read this far, maybe you have your own thoughts on the role of the church today or how we remember great people. Don’t be shy — drop a comment, share a story, or just say what you think. Topics like this deserve loud and clear conversation!
