Patriarch Daniil Raises Concerns About Ukrainian Orthodox Church with U.S. Ambassador

OCP News Service – 21/08/2024

Sofia – Bulgaria: Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil met with U.S. Ambassador Kenneth Merten on August 20, 2024, to discuss various topics, including religious freedom, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, and the role of the Orthodox Church in the United States.

During the meeting, Patriarch Daniil highlighted the long-standing cooperation between the Orthodox Bulgarian Diocese in the United States and American authorities. He emphasized the growing number of Americans joining the Orthodox Church and its expanding pastoral and spiritual activities.

Ambassador Merten expressed his deep respect for the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and its role in the spiritual education of the Bulgarian people. He acknowledged the Church’s significant contributions throughout history, including its efforts to rescue Bulgarian Jews during World War II.

Patriarch Daniil also addressed concerns regarding religious freedom and the right to practice religion in various regions of the world. He pointed to the restrictions imposed on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, headed by Metropolitan Onuphrius, which include limitations on religious freedom, worship, church property, and the promotion of hate speech.

The Bulgarian Patriarch emphasized that the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which maintains Eucharistic communion with all local Orthodox churches, faces serious challenges due to discriminatory policies in Ukraine. He expressed hope that democratic forces around the world would address these disturbing trends and ensure religious freedom, the right to worship, and the protection of church property for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Patriarch Daniil concluded by noting that throughout European history, religious peace has been essential for achieving political and social peace.

Source:

OCP News Service