Borisov Pushes Strategic Move to Address Drama in BPC
In a significant development, Prime Minister Boyko Borisov has initiated key steps to address the ongoing turmoil within the Bulgarian Orthodox Church (BPC). The move comes amid increasing pressure from the public and key stakeholders who have been closely monitoring the church’s internal disputes.
Borisov’s intervention follows recommendations from the Christian Democrat party, GERB, which is proposing amendments to the Religion Denominations Act. One of the key proposed changes would limit the number of recognized churches in the country to one. Currently, Bulgaria has two registered Orthodox churches: the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the Bulgarian Orthodox Church (Alternative Synod).
The Bulgarian Orthodox Old-Calendar Church, a breakaway group, has once again met resistance in its attempts to register, with the Ministerial Council rejecting its application. This latest setback comes as the group continues to grow in influence and adherents, further complicating the religious landscape in Bulgaria.
In response to the Ministerial Council’s decision, Acting Interior Minister Georgi Georgiev expressed his stance, "We cannot approve the registration of a church that already has a duplicate name." This statement has been criticized by some as a justification for the government’s obstruction of the Old-Calendar Church’s registration efforts.
Adding to the complexities, the Holy Synod of BPC addressed the Old-Calendar Church’s adherents, urging them to return to the "saving ship" of the BPC. This intervention has further intensified tensions, with the Old-Calendar Church accusing the BPC of proselytism.
The political and religious maneuvering around the BPC’s internal strife has captured the public’s attention, with many Bulgarians expressing their concerns over the church’s divisions. The Prime Minister’s involvement signals a determination to address these concerns and stabilize the religious scene in Bulgaria.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on Borisov and the GERB party to see how their proposed amendments will shape Bulgaria’s religious landscape. The Old-Calendar Church, for its part, remains undeterred, continuing its efforts to gain formal recognition. The future of Bulgaria’s religious denominations, and the BPC in particular, hangs in the balance as these political and ecclesiastical drama continues to play out.
