Bulgarian Patriotic Party ABV Condemns Court Decision Legalizing Second Orthodox Church
Following the ruling of the Supreme Cassation Court, Bulgarian Patriotic Party (PPO) ABV has expressed deep concern, stating that the decision to register a second Orthodox church is a ‘heavy blow’ to Orthodox Christianity in Bulgaria, potentially leading to a new schism.
Historically, attempts at secular and political interference in Bulgarian church affairs are not unprecedented. However, an unprecedented situation has emerged with the court’s recognition and registration of a second Orthodox church.
"This sets a very dangerous precedent, as there is no second Catholic Church worldwide, nor similar instances in other denominations," said ABV spokesperson. "It’s clear that the aim is to legitimate a new church split, backed by the European Court of Human Rights after repeated rejections by Bulgarian courts."
The Church, with its assistance, has helped preserve the Bulgarian people for centuries, despite countless historical, political, and social obstacles. ABV calls upon Bulgarian society to stand behind Bulgarian Patriarch Neofit and the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, supporting the sole authentic, pure, and universally recognized Holy Bulgarian Orthodox Church.
"By this decision, driven by European institutions, a thousand-year bond between our people and the Orthodox faith is being rudely shattered," the statement concludes.
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