On Saturday, 23rd November 2024, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain represented the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the Divine Liturgy held in the Patriarchal Cathedral of St Alexander Nevsky, Sofia, Bulgaria for the 10thAnniversary of the consecration of the Cathedral.
The day began with the formal reception of hierarchs in the vestry of the historic cathedral, where they vested for the liturgical celebration. Archbishop Nikitas, alongside other Orthodox leaders, gathered to celebrate the Divine Liturgy in a spirit of prayer and fraternity.
At 9:00 AM, Patriarch Daniil of Bulgaria was received with the prayers of entrance. The Divine Liturgy began shortly after, at 9:30 AM, in the resplendent surroundings of the Cathedral. This solemn occasion brought together hierarchs, clergy, and faithful from across the Orthodox world, celebrating the richness of Orthodox liturgical tradition and the bonds that unite the Local Orthodox Churches to one another in the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.
Following the Liturgy, a festive luncheon was hosted in a nearby hotel, where Archbishop Nikitas joined Patriarch Daniil, fellow hierarchs, and distinguished guests in an atmosphere of fellowship and shared celebration.
Archbishop Nikitas, in the letter of thanks to Patriarch Daniil reflected on the joy of his visit and the profound connection he felt with the Church and people of Bulgaria. He noted his hope that this bond would continue to grow, fostering greater collaboration in the mission and witness of the Church worldwide.
The Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain and Archbishop Nikitas pray for the continued strengthening of the bonds of love and unity across the Orthodox Church worldwide.
Photo credit: Bulgarian Patriarchate, BTA
