Singing restored words in Albania's national hymn

For 50 years, Albania's Communist rulers removed the words 'The Lord saves the nation of Albania' from the country's national hymn.

In November, as part of a celebration in a new meeting point in a village where they serve, our Albanian partners joined with villages to sing the complete version again.

"We organised a celebration for Independence Day, November 28th", reports Dr. Patriot Hoxhaj of WorldShare's partner, Balkans Wholistic Development.

Dedication for new building

"It was the first time that we, as a group, sang the whole National Hymn."

The celebration took place in a new building in Vlochisht, one of the three villages near Korca in south-east Albania where BWD has been pioneering their wide-ranging practical, spiritual and health-focused ministries for several years.

"Our Indepedence Day is very special, and is the result of all the efforts of Albanians for 500 years to be free politically and spiritually," observes Dr. Hoxhaj.

"Praise the Lord for the great provision of a house in the village of Vlochisht, where we have been serving for several years. By God's grace, the Evangelical Church in Korca brought a house in the village for all of the believers to come together and enjoy the Word of God.

"Over 100 people from the village came to the Dedication Day of this place on the 21st of October.

The children celebrating Christmas

"We had a great time celebrating Christmas with over 75 people from the villages of Vashtemi, Pocesta and Vlochisht on 23rd December," Dr. Hoxhaj says. "Over 40 children in Pocesta celebrated Christmas in a new place which is much better (no humidity, and much brighter). In Vashtemi, over 45 children celebrated Christmas at the church.

"The children thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Christmas drama and message. They were also happy to get a small Christmas present."