Metropolitan Joan Pelushi, born in Tirana on January 2, 1956, has been appointed the new Archbishop of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania. His life’s journey has been marked by dedication to faith, education, and service, making him a distinguished figure in Albanian religious and cultural life.
Early life and education
During Albania’s harshest period of religious persecution, Pelushi was secretly baptized by Father Kozma Qirio — later Bishop of Apollonia — becoming part of a small underground church community. From 1979 to 1990, he worked at Tirana’s Psychiatric Hospital in the rehabilitation unit using occupational therapy.
In 1990, he left Albania for the United States, where he pursued theological studies at the Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in Boston. He earned his Master of Theological Studies (MTS) with “High Distinction” in 1993.
Return to Albania and clerical service
Compelled by a desire to rebuild the Church in his homeland, Pelushi contacted Archbishop Anastas in 1992, expressing his intention to return to Albania at a time when many were leaving. Archbishop Anastas welcomed his decision, and Pelushi returned in September 1992, taking up a teaching position at the Theological Academy of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania.
On February 27, 1994, he was ordained a deacon, and later that year, on December 4, he became a priest while continuing to teach at the academy. In 1995, he returned to Boston for further studies, earning a Master of Theology (MT) with “High Distinction” in 1997. His academic achievements earned him a place on the U.S. National Dean’s List for the 1995-1996 academic year, a distinction recognizing top students across American universities.
Clerical advancement and scholarly contributions
Pelushi was elevated to the rank of archimandrite in 1996 and became dean of the Theological Academy from 1996 to 1998. In 1998, he was elected and ordained Bishop of Korçë, a position he held while continuing his teaching role at the academy.
As a scholar, he authored the first Albanian-language text on Dogmatics, which is now the official Orthodox Church publication in Albania. He translated numerous theological works into Albanian, including complex texts from Church Fathers such as Basil the Great’s On the Holy Spirit, a cornerstone of Christian doctrine. His translations helped shape and standardize religious and philosophical terminology in Albanian, filling a significant gap in the country’s theological literature.
Fluent in English, French, Italian, and Greek, with knowledge of Latin and Hebrew, Pelushi has published articles in both local and international academic journals.
Recognition and honors
Pelushi’s contributions to religious tolerance and cultural development have earned him numerous accolades. In 2008, the Korçë City Council honored him as “Honorary Citizen” for his efforts in reviving faith and advancing humanitarian and social causes.
In 2018, Korçë’s “Fan S. Noli” University awarded him the title “Doctor Honoris Causa” for his exceptional contributions to spirituality, theology, culture, archaeology, philosophy, history, and Albanian studies. In 2019, Tirana Municipality awarded him a Certificate of Appreciation, recognizing him as “a national and international figure, a model of peace, harmony, and religious coexistence.”
His Eminence Joan Pelushi is widely respected for his lifelong service to the Church, his scholarly achievements, and his commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and community support in Albania and beyond.
