Patriarch Daniil Welcomes U.S. Ambassador Kenneth Merten
patriarshia.bg
OCP News Service – 04/08/2024
Sofia – Bulgaria: On August 03,2024, His Holiness the Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil, who is currently overseeing the Vidin Diocese, welcomed His Excellency Mr. Kenneth Merten, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Bulgaria, during his unofficial visit to Vidin. Ambassador Merten was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Suzanne Merten, the Deputy Speaker of the 50th National Assembly and People’s Representative from the Vidin multi-mandate constituency, Mrs. Rositsa Kirova, and the Mayor of Vidin, Dr. Tsvetan Tsenkov.
Patriarch Daniil began the visit by showing the distinguished guests the mausoleum of the first Bulgarian Exarch, Antim. He shared with Ambassador Merten the pivotal role Exarch Antim played in mobilizing Western diplomacy following the brutal suppression of the April Uprising and the subsequent liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. His Holiness also recounted the history and contributions of the Metropolitans of Vidin from the Liberation period to the present day.
The delegation visited the “St. Vmchk Panteleimon” temple, a historic site dating back to the early 17th century. The visitors were impressed by the extensive restoration and conservation efforts as well as the exquisite beauty of the wall paintings.
The meeting concluded in the metropolitan building where Patriarch Daniil and his guests exchanged gifts, symbolizing the goodwill and strengthened relations between the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the United States.
Source:
OCP News Service
