Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil Meets with Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev to Strengthen Church-State Cooperation

OCP News Service – 25/07/2024

Sofia – Bulgaria: On July 24,2024, His Holiness the Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil met with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria, Mr. Dimitar Glavchev, in a significant discussion aimed at reinforcing the traditionally strong relationship between the church and state authorities. The meeting was also attended by His Eminence Metropolitan Cyprian of Stara Zagora, Bishop Gerasim of Melnysh, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod, Bishop Pakhomiy of Branitsa, First Vicar of the Metropolitan of Sofia, Mr. Dimitar Goranov, Head of the Cabinet of the Bulgarian Patriarch, Associate Professor Dr. Maria Kyoseva, legal advisor of the Holy Synod, and Mr. Emil Velinov, head of the “Protocol” department at the Holy Synod.

During the conversation, Patriarch Daniil emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation between state institutions and church authorities. “This cooperation must continue and be built upon,” His Holiness stated, highlighting the role of peace and security in maintaining societal stability. He reiterated the Bulgarian Orthodox Church’s historical role in supporting the laity during difficult times.

Prime Minister Glavchev expressed his gratitude for the Church’s support and its role in fostering faith and hope among the people. “The Bulgarian Orthodox Church has always been a support in the most difficult moments of the life of the laity. I am sure that you will also continue this tradition,” the Prime Minister said. He emphasized that faith in the Lord and spiritual well-being are foundational to the prosperity of the nation.

A significant topic discussed during the meeting was the introduction of the subject of Religion-Orthodoxy in schools, drawing on examples from other countries where similar programs have been implemented successfully.

To commemorate the occasion, Prime Minister Glavchev presented Patriarch Daniil with a commemorative coin “Exarch Antim I”, while His Holiness gifted the Prime Minister a collection of “Monasteries of Bulgaria” silver coins. The Prime Minister wished Patriarch Daniil health and strength in his mission to be a support and hope for all Bulgarians.

Source:

OCP News Service