Albanian Orthodox Church Elects Ignat as New Bishop of Amantia in Tirana

  The Albanian Orthodox Church has elected Archimandrite Ignat as the new Bishop of Amantia, marking a significant development in the country’s religious leadership.

The decision was made on April 28, 2026, during a session of the Holy Synod of the Albanian Orthodox Church, chaired by Archbishop Ioannis in Tirana. The election was unanimous, reflecting strong internal support for Ignat, who is expected to play a key role in the Church’s governance and spiritual direction. 

Ignat, born in 1978 in the Fier region, has built a long ecclesiastical career, serving for years as a preacher and catechist across southern Albania before embracing monastic life in 2017. He later rose through the ranks, becoming a priest in 2024 and Archimandrite in 2025, while also holding senior administrative roles, including Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod. 

His appointment is considered important for the continuity and strengthening of the Church’s institutional structure, as the Holy Synod—the highest governing body of the Church—plays a central role in decision-making and leadership appointments. 

 The episcopal consecration of Ignat is scheduled to take place in early May at the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Tirana, a major center of Orthodox life in Albania.

The election comes at a time when the Albanian Orthodox Church continues efforts to reinforce its leadership and expand its engagement both nationally and internationally, following recent transitions within its hierarchy.