Constantinople recognizes Albanian autocephaly
About this date: April 1937 dates recognition by Constantinople, not the first local declaration of autocephaly. The linked English history gives 17 April; other official accounts give 12 April, so the card does not resolve that day-level discrepancy.
A patriarchal and synodal tomos recognizes the Orthodox Church of Albania's autocephaly and a canonical synod is established.
Historical context
The recognition is a stage in the organization of Albanian Orthodoxy, distinct from earlier local declarations and from the much later rebuilding after communist repression.
Key points
- The 1937 tomos establishes recognition by the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
- The arrangement includes an Albanian episcopal synod.
- Autocephaly concerns church governance rather than a new Christian doctrine.
People
- Benjamin I of Constantinople
- Christopher Kissi
Sources and further reading
- From 1937 Onward
Official history of the 1937 tomos and institutional settlement.