From September 21-25, 2024, the Abbot of the Holy Monastery of Esphigmenos, Archimandrite Bartholomew, accompanied by Athonite monks, made a pilgrimage to Bulgaria. The occasion was his participation in a vigil and Divine Liturgy on September 22-23, following the Athonite rite, in honor of Saint Silouan the Athonite at the Holy Monastery of the St. Unmercenaries in Pernik, Bulgaria.
Archimandrite Bartholomew had been invited by Archimandrite Nikanoros, the Abbot of the Holy Monastery of St. Unmercenaries, with the blessing and canonical permission of Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria. The festive vigil and Divine Liturgy saw the participation of clergy from Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Russia, creating an atmosphere of deep devotion, shared by both clergy and laity from across the Balkans. This gathering stood in contrast to the divisive influences that have been exacerbated by external political forces, particularly the Kremlin’s efforts in the region.
In his homily, Abbot Bartholomew emphasized the spirit of “pan-Balkan unity,” highlighting that faith in God transcends the divisions crafted by politicians based on ethnic differences. He stressed that faith unites rather than divides, offering a powerful message of solidarity.
Of particular note during the visit was the concern expressed by many in Bulgaria—both clergy and laity—regarding the ongoing occupation of the Esphigmenos Monastery, as well as the rise of Russian nationalism on Mount Athos. The interventions by Russian authorities were also a point of significant discussion.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
