Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria, along with the Metropolitans of the Holy Synod, welcomed the Speaker of the National Assembly, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Natalia Kiselova, and the Deputy Speakers of Parliament.
Patriarch Daniel extended his blessings to the parliamentary representatives, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the Church and the state. He congratulated Natalia Kiselova on her election as Speaker of the 51st National Assembly, wishing her success in overcoming challenges and expressing satisfaction that the legislative body is now fully operational.
In turn, Speaker Kiselova expressed hope for continued fruitful cooperation between the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the National Assembly. She acknowledged the Church’s critical role as a stabilizing force for the Bulgarian spirit throughout history and its continuing importance in supporting the nation through difficult times. “Our Orthodox Church is not only a traditional faith but also a pillar of Bulgarian identity, and we trust it will remain a guardian of spiritual values for the people,” Kiselova remarked, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to propel the country forward.
Church’s Role in Education and Moral Guidance
During the discussion, the Patriarch highlighted the Church’s essential role in fostering moral values, patriotism, and traditional virtues among the younger generation. He noted, “The negative behaviors we observe in our society are a direct result of spiritual emptiness,” underscoring the importance of self-reflection and the acknowledgment of one’s mistakes for progress to occur.
The meeting also included a discussion about introducing “Religion” as a mandatory subject in Bulgarian schools. Speaker Kiselova affirmed that as parliamentary committees are being formed, she is confident the relevant committee will collaborate effectively with the Bulgarian Orthodox Church to advance this initiative.
Exchange of Gifts
To mark the occasion, Speaker Kiselova presented Patriarch Daniel with the commemorative album “145 Years of the Bulgarian Parliament” and an honorary plaque of the National Assembly.
In return, Patriarch Daniel gifted Speaker Kiselova a set of silver coins depicting Bulgaria’s most prominent monasteries, a commemorative coin marking the anniversary of the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, and the book “The Civil Law Status of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church” by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Kyoseva, a legal advisor to the Holy Synod.
The meeting concluded with mutual recognition of the shared commitment to fostering spiritual and social well-being in Bulgaria.
Source and photos: Bulgarian Patriarchate
