07/28/2026
Our Lady of Shkodra Church in Hartsdale, New York, is one of the most important centers of Albanian Catholic faith in the United States and beyond. Consecrated in 1999, the church serves thousands of Albanian-American families while preserving and promoting the Catholic faith, the Albanian language, cultural traditions, and national identity.
Under the 40-year leadership of Rev. Pjetër Popaj, Our Lady of Shkodra Church has become a vital spiritual, cultural, and national institution for the Albanian community in America.
Under the church's umbrella operates the Mother Teresa Center, which is home to the “Rozafati Association”, the “Jeta Katolike” magazine, and the “Drita Association”.
Throughout the year, the center hosts numerous religious, cultural, educational, and community events. Among its most well-known annual activities are the “Albanian Heritage Day” Picnic in early June, the Carnival in early September, and the Albanian Festival in early November, along with many other religious, cultural, and educational programs held throughout the year. Our Lady of Shkodra Kisha Katolike Shqiptare, New York