Blessed Gjelosh Lulashi

Biography

Blessed Gjelosh Lulashi was a devout Catholic and a lifelong layman in the archdiocese of Shkodrô-Pult, Albania. Born on 2 September 1925 in Shosh, Shkodrô, he received his education from the Franciscans and later studied at the Shkodôr Seminary.

Gjelosh led a diverse life, which included serving as a soldier, working as a secretary, and being a member of the anti-Communist group, Albanian Union. He fervently opposed the Communist regime and refused to support its ideology. As a devout Catholic, he remained loyal to the Vatican, which led to accusations of being a Vatican spy.

On 3 December 1945, Gjelosh was arrested on charges of treason for his unwavering Catholic faith and his refusal to align with the Communist regime. Subsequently, he endured a show trial on 22 February 1946, which inevitably resulted in his conviction and sentence of death.

In the early morning of 4 March 1946, Gjelosh was executed by a machine-gun squad at the Varrezat e Rrmajit cemetery on the Rruga Hile Mosi in Shkodrô, Albania. His body was deliberately left exposed outside for a day, serving as a warning to those who opposed the Communist regime.

Recognizing the significance of Gjelosh's unwavering faith and martyrdom, Pope Francis decreed his veneration on 26 April 2016. Then, on 5 November 2016, Pope Francis officially beatified him, celebrating the beatification at the Square of the Cathedral of Shôn Shtjefnit in Shkodôr, Albania. The beatification ceremony was conducted under the guidance of Cardinal Angelo Amato.

Gjelosh Lulashi, now recognized as the Blessed Gjelosh Lulashi, rests in a mass grave near the riverbed, together with other martyrs. To conceal the grave, rubbish bins were stacked on top of it. His feast day is celebrated on 4 March, commemorating the day of his martyrdom.

Blessed Gjelosh Lulashi's story serves as a testament to his unwavering faith in the face of persecution during a tumultuous period in Albania's history. His sacrifice and dedication to his Catholic faith continue to inspire believers, reminding us of the importance of upholding our beliefs even in the most challenging times.