Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria attended the inaugural session of the newly elected 52nd National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria, marking a significant moment in the country’s political life.
The Patriarch was accompanied by Bishop Gerasim of Melnik, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. Their presence underscored the close relationship between the Church and the state during key national events.
Also attending the opening session were prominent political and institutional figures, including Iliana Yotova, Acting Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov, members of the caretaker government, representatives of other religious communities in the country, Members of the European Parliament, as well as members of the diplomatic corps and various state institutions.
At the beginning of the session, the newly elected members of parliament took the official oath, pledging in the name of the Republic of Bulgaria to uphold the Constitution and laws of the country and to act in the best interests of the people in all their decisions.
The ceremony was marked by the playing of the national anthem of Bulgaria, followed by the anthem of the European Union, highlighting both the country’s national identity and its role within the broader European community.
The presence of religious leaders alongside political authorities reflected the ceremonial and symbolic importance of the occasion, as Bulgaria begins a new parliamentary term with expectations of stability, governance, and public service.
Source: Patriarchate of Bulgaria
