On January 23, the Redemptorist community in Kamez welcomed Father Alex Bercasio, CSsR, a Filipino missionary from the Vice-Province of Manila. His arrival marks a significant step in the collaboration between the Conference of Redemptorists of Europe (CRE) and the Vice-Province of Manila, symbolising the global unity of the Redemptorist Congregation.
Father Alex was accompanied by a delegation from Manila, including Father Raymond Urriza, CSsR (Superior of the Vice-Province), and two consultors, Father Rico Bilangel, CSsR, and Father Leomar Arenillo, CSsR.
The group visited Albania to understand the mission’s reality. They were joined by Father Piotr Chyła, CSsR, coordinator of the CRE, and met with Msgr Arjan Dodaj, the Catholic Metropolitan Archbishop of Tirana-Durrës, to discuss the mission’s role in the local Church.
Father Alex shared his first impressions: “The faith here is nourishing, and the people’s warmth is incredible. I look forward to sharing the message of redemption in this beautiful land.”
Albania, where 70% of the population is Muslim, also has a strong Catholic and Orthodox presence. After decades of atheistic communist rule, which suppressed all religious expression, the collapse of communism in the early 1990s opened the door to a spiritual revival. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, of Albanian origin, remains a revered figure, symbolising unity and compassion across religious denominations.
The Redemptorist mission in Albania began in 2014 and is based in Kamez. The parish of St. Alphonsus Liguori serves as a centre for evangelisation and social outreach. Initially formed by three Redemptorist missionaries from the Provinces of London, Madrid, and Warsaw, the mission collaborates with the sisters – missiories of charity and franciscan sisters. Their focus is on proclaiming the Gospel to those seeking meaning and expanding outreach in southern Albania, where pastoral needs are greatest.
Father Piotr Chyła reflects on the mission’s significance: “Albania offers Europe and the Congregation a unique opportunity. Here, young people are searching for meaning, and even Muslims are rediscovering their identity. This is where the Redemptorist mission can truly shine.”
The international composition of the community on the outskirts of Tirana is a sign of solidarity and collaboration. As Father Raymond Urriza notes: “We are a small province, but we are part of one missionary body. This is our way of contributing to the greater mission of the Congregation.”
With plans to expand their outreach and deepen collaboration, the Redemptorists in Albania continue to walk alongside the people there as witnesses to the abundant redemption.
GR / Scala News
