Patriarch Daniel: Political Support Offers Hope for Resolving Old-Rite Church Issue
Patriarch Daniel of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church (BOC) expressed hope that the ongoing issue with the Bulgarian Old-Rite Orthodox Church would be resolved, citing the political support the BOC is receiving from the President, the Government, and various political factions. Speaking to journalists in Radomir, the Patriarch emphasized the importance of clear actions from the state to avoid confusion about which of the two denominations is the canonical Orthodox Church, as cited by the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR).
The Patriarch views the political support as a positive sign, given that it took 20 years to overcome the schism within the Church. He noted that the Law on Denominations was instrumental in achieving this reconciliation. "It is hope-giving that with this legislative framework, this decision was reached. And I hope that what has been specified in the Constitution and with the Law will be respected, so that such confusion does not arise again," said Patriarch Daniel.
During his visit to Radomir, the Patriarch officiated a Patriarchal Divine Liturgy and performed the Great Blessing of Water on St. Epiphany’s Day. He also met with Mayor Kiril Stoev and his team, as well as with the Chairman of the County Council Svetoslav Kirilov. Patriarch Daniel also visited the newly-built church "Благовещение" and the church in the "Върба" district, which is being restored under a European project.
As the weekend approached, the dedication of St. John the Baptist’s deed was commemorated in churches across the country. The Great Blessing of Water on St. Epiphany’s Day was also performed, as reported by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA). Priests encouraged the faithful to focus on the essence of the feast, not just its outer appearances.