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Bulgaria‘s Old Calendarist Movement: Historical Context and Recent Developments
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Bulgaria’s old calendarist movement, often referred to as the Old Calendarists, has a history that dates back to 1916 when the country adopted the Gregorian calendar. This religious movement has recently gained attention due to a decision by the Supreme Cassation Court (Verkhovniy Kasatsiyonen Sud) on December 16, which registered the "Bulgarian Old Calendarist Orthodox Church" as a religious institution under the Law on Denominations.
Historical Context
Christo Matsanov, a historian and former director of the Directorate of Religious Denominations, shed light on the old calendarist movement in a live broadcast of "Den-Martin" on Nova TV. He noted that the issue is not merely about the calendar, but also about the interpretation of religious tenets and the preservation of historical traditions.
The debate between old and new calendarists is complex, involving not just the discrepancy in calendar days (12, 13, or 14 days, depending on the century), but also the dogmatic implications of rectifying this difference. Advocates for the old calendar argue that correcting the calendar days amounts to omitting saints’ days, hence, a sin.
Recent Developments and Concerns
Matsanov, in the same broadcast, underscored that the Supreme Cassation Court’s role was not to delve into dogmatic questions but to discern whether the Bulgarian laws allowed the registration of such a church. He expressed concern that this decision could lead to a schism in the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.
However, Matsanov also noted that the political stance on this issue has been largely uniform, with no politician, including the Prime Minister and President, supporting the registration. The new law contemplates that the court’s decisions should consider the stance of the Directorate of Religious Denominations and the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. Notably, the Bulgarian Patriarch, despite previously stark opposition, has recently softened his stance, with his only objection being the use of the term "Orthodox" in the registered church’s name.
As the old calendarist movement continues to evolve, its historical significance and contemporary implications warrant close scrutiny. The dialogue between traditionalists and reformists remains multifaceted, touching on Bulgaria’s religious identity, historical legacy, and the delicate balance of progress and preservation.
Follow our coverage for more updates on this developing story.
