“Despite the conflicts, wars, and insecurity that prevail in today’s world, the Church continues to proclaim God’s peace on earth and call the faithful to practice it,” Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria and Metropolitan of Sofia emphasized in an interview with the program “Panorama” on Bulgarian National Television (BNT).
During the interview, the Patriarch discussed his recent visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate and his meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. He explained that this visit was part of an established Orthodox tradition. He noted that the purpose of the visit was to bear witness to the unity of the Church, emphasizing that local Orthodox churches are not isolated or self-sufficient, but are an integral part of the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.
During the visit, Patriarch Daniel clarified that issues concerning the position of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church with regard to the status of the Orthodox Church in Ukraine were discussed. He emphasized that no pressure was exerted on the Bulgarian side to recognize or formally take a position on the matter. He also expressed hope that the Church will provide a conciliar response to all outstanding issues in the future.
In response to a question about the independence of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Daniel noted that the only desirable “dependence” for the Church is dependence on Christ. He added that there can be no true freedom when passions enslave a person. Referring to the “East–West” confrontation, Patriarch Daniel stressed that, from an Orthodox perspective, it should not be interpreted in geopolitical terms since Orthodox Christians are spiritually oriented toward the lost Paradise and await the Second Coming of Christ. He emphasized that spiritual unity transcends geopolitical divisions.
The Patriarch referred to the large number of people who attended church at the beginning of the new year. He noted that many welcomed January 1 with prayer, fasting, and participation in the Divine Liturgy and communion in the Body and Blood of Christ. He also emphasized the importance of BNT’s television series about Saint Paisios of Mount Athos, calling it a blessing for the Bulgarian audience and a chance for spiritual growth.
In closing the interview, the Patriarch of Bulgaria offered words of encouragement to the faithful in Bulgaria and abroad, urging them not to succumb to fear. He stressed that the presence and peace of God provide firm support for Christians, which is distinct from the transient and uncertain promises of the world.
Source: bta.bg
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou
