Patriarch Neofit of Bulgaria was commemorated on the second anniversary of his repose with a memorial Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of Saint Nedelya Cathedral in Sofia.
The service was presided over by Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria and concelebrated by hierarchs of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, clergy from the capital, and representatives of other Local Orthodox Churches.
Before the start of the service, Patriarch Daniel spoke about the spiritual legacy of his predecessor, describing him as a shepherd distinguished by deep faith and genuine humility. He noted that Patriarch Neofit possessed “a deep and sincere faith in God” and served as “an example of humility, gentleness, and dedication to God.”
“He was exceptionally pure in soul and body,” Patriarch Daniel said, adding that his ministry had become “an extremely worthy service as the first hierarch of our native Orthodox Church,” leaving behind a remarkable example of love for God and for the flock entrusted to him.
Among those concelebrating were Metropolitan John of Varna and Veliki Preslav, Metropolitan Serafim of Nevrokop, Metropolitan Cyprian of Stara Zagora, Metropolitan Gregory of Vratsa, and Metropolitan Arseny of Sliven.
During the Divine Liturgy, prayers were offered for the repose of the late Patriarch’s soul. After the service, a memorial service (panikhida) was celebrated, in which Metropolitan Gregory of Veliko Tarnovo also participated.
By decision of the Holy Synod, Metropolitan Arseny of Sliven delivered a commemorative address recalling the life and long ministry of the late Patriarch. He emphasized that throughout nearly half a century of service—including twelve years as Primate of the Church—Patriarch Neofit remained a faithful servant of Christ and a zealous witness to the truth of the Gospel.
Metropolitan Arseny noted that during his archpastoral leadership many churches and monasteries were restored or built, while particular attention was given to charitable work and the spiritual education of the faithful. He also described the late Patriarch as a man “devoted and faithful to the truth, firm as a rock in the face of pressure,” who preserved the peace of the Church both within Bulgaria and in its relations with other Orthodox Churches.
Following the services, clergy and faithful proceeded to the tomb of Patriarch Neofit, located under the southern colonnade of the cathedral, where a trisagion prayer was offered.
Patriarch Neofit fell asleep in the Lord on March 13, 2024. His life and ministry left a lasting mark on the modern history of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, and he continues to be remembered by the faithful as a symbol of humility, spiritual purity, and pastoral devotion.
Source: Patriarchate of Bulgaria / Article, photos and videos: Ангел Карадаков
