18 May 2025 | Tirana, Albania [Sara Henke]
On Sunday, 18 May, the Family Ministries Department of the Albanian Mission (AM) brought together believers from across the country for a special occasion—Family Day, an event designed to foster deeper connection among members and strengthen church unity.
Pastor Gentian Thomollari and his wife, Sanda, Family Ministries Department leaders, shared the vision for the event. “Family Day brings Adventists churches together in fellowship, worship, and community bonding. It strengthens relationships across generations… through prayer, activities, and shared experiences.”
Words that Heal: A Seminar on Nonviolent Communication
A key highlight of the gathering was a seminar on nonviolent communication¹, presented by Natiéli Schäffer, Women’s Ministries Director for the AM. Schäffer, who holds a Master’s degree in Religious Education with an emphasis on Family Life, reflected on her experience, “After living in Albania for almost eight years, I have often witnessed how communication can become intense, loud, and reactive, leading to misunderstandings and fractured relationships.”
Her aim in leading the workshop was to “raise awareness and inspire families to pursue healthier relationships through more peaceful, respectful, and assertive communication.”
The seminar deeply resonated with attendees. Mirela Peno, who travelled three and a half hours each way to participate, shared, “The topics we covered were more than just lectures; they were real lessons on how to be better people within our families. It’s both an education and an encouragement.”
More Than an Event: A Living Expression of Faith
For the Adventist community in Albania, Family Day stands as a living testimony to the unity, hope, and love that binds its members together.
“I have always seen the church as a family—brothers and sisters in Christ,” shared attendee Mirela Peno. “I treasure these gatherings where people reconnect, rejoice, and grow together. Everything was so thoughtfully prepared, from the beautiful location to the delicious lunch. I left feeling refreshed, joyful, and grateful.”
Razie Matraxhiu, another participant, emphasised the day’s spiritual depth, “Through the various activities, we learn how to build and strengthen our own families. The presence of God was felt.”
Reflecting on the broader purpose of the gathering, Pastor Gentian Thomollari concluded, “Family Day is not merely an event but a ministry—one that helps reinforce core values such as togetherness, kindness, and spiritual growth. It ensures that faith is not only practised on Sabbath, but lived daily within loving and connected homes.”
[Photos: courtesy of Sara Henke]
¹Nonviolent Communication is a method of communication designed to foster empathy and understanding by focusing on feelings and needs rather than judgments. It was pioneered by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg.
