Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel met with Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev, underscoring the strong and cooperative relationship between the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the state.
Patriarch Daniel highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the church and state institutions, emphasizing the need for this synergy to continue and evolve. “Peace and security in society are of utmost importance,” he stated.
Prime Minister Glavchev acknowledged the church’s pivotal role during challenging times in Bulgarian history. “The Bulgarian Orthodox Church has always been a bulwark in the most difficult moments of the life of the laity. I am confident that this tradition will continue,” he remarked. He further emphasized that the soul and faith in the Lord are the foundations of the people’s prosperity, and the church remains the institution that instills hope for a better future.
The discussion also included the potential introduction of Religion-Orthodoxy as a subject in Bulgarian schools, drawing parallels to similar educational models in other countries, such as Greece, where Religion-Orthodoxy is part of the curriculum.
As a gesture of mutual respect, Prime Minister Glavchev presented Patriarch Daniel with a commemorative coin of Exarch Antim I, while the Patriarch gifted the Prime Minister a collection of silver coins featuring Bulgarian monasteries. The Prime Minister expressed his best wishes for the health and strength of Patriarch Daniel in his mission to be a pillar of hope for all Bulgarians.
Following the meeting, Patriarch Daniel blessed the members of the Council of Ministers at the beginning of the government session, reinforcing the ongoing cooperation and shared commitment to the nation’s well-being.
Source and photos: bg-patriarshia.bg