Patriarch Daniel, the Bulgarian Patriarch and Metropolitan of Sofia, has responded to the Supreme Cassation Court’s decision to register the “Bulgarian Old Rite Orthodox Church” as a separate denomination. In a statement, His Holiness emphasized that the Church is one and unitary, and expressed sadness over the division.
Patriarch Daniel made it clear that the Bulgarian Orthodox Church regards the Old Rite clergy and faithful as part of the Church. He stated, “We know very well that the Church is one. There is no divide in the Church.” He made these remarks following the court’s decision to recognize the Old Rite Church as a separate religious entity.
The Supreme Cassation Court’s ruling comes after a long-standing dispute between the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the Old Rite clergy, who have been seeking recognition as a separate denomination. Despite the court’s decision, Patriarch Daniel reiterated the Church’s stance on unity, saying that the division is a cause for sorrow.
The Bulgarian Orthodox Church, headed by Patriarch Daniel, remains steadfast in its belief in the unity and oneness of the Church, despite the legal recognition of the Old Rite clergy as a separate entity. The Church calls upon all clergy and faithful to remain united in prayer and action, working towards reconciliation and fostering understanding among all Bulgarians.
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