Back to Christianity?
18 January 2025
A growing movement among Kosovo Albanians to reconnect with Christianity as their ancestral religion is gaining momentum. Prior to the Ottoman Empire's introduction of Islam in the region most were of the Christian denomination. Initiated in 2023 by nationalist intellectuals and former Liberation Army fighters, the movement sparked both support and criticism.
This shift is intertwined with a broader quest to reclaim national identity, as some see Christianity as a way to strengthen Albanian cultural ties, aligning with historical figures like Skanderbeg, a national hero associated with resisting Ottoman rule and defending Christian heritage.
Father Fran Kolaj, from the village of Llapushnik, has been performing baptisms to help people "return to where we belong – with Christ", as he says.
Historians acknowledge Christianity’s historical presence in Kosovo but question the logic of the movement, noting that pre-Christian Kosovars were, in fact, pagans. At the same time, some suspect Serbia, a predominantly Orthodox Christian nation, may be fuelling the movement to sow discord.
Despite the region's history of religious coexistence, advocates of this movement argue that embracing Christianity symbolizes Kosovo’s European identity and counters extremist influences. Critics, including PM Albin Kurti, contend that “for Albanians, in terms of identity, religion was never of first importance.”
 | Airinë Nuqi The revival of Christianity among Kosovo Albanians is as much about cultural identity and European alignment as it is about faith. While supporters argue that returning to Christianity reclaims a pre-Islamic heritage and positions Kosovo firmly within Europe, this definitely raises concerns about whether such efforts risk oversimplifying history or deepening societal divides. While the movement may counter extremist influences, it also highlights the lengths Kosovars are willing to go to seek acceptance from the EU. |
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