By Efi Efthymiou
Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria is in Thessaloniki to participate in the 2nd Scientific Conference of the journal Theology of the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece, accompanied by Metropolitan Seraphim of Nevrokop and Metropolitan Gregory of Vratsa. On behalf of the Conference’s Organizing Committee, Metropolitan Grigorios of Peristeri welcomed the Patriarch.
This marks the first visit of the Bulgarian Patriarch outside his jurisdiction since his election on June 30. Notably, Patriarch Daniel has not yet visited the Phanar, as is customary for newly elected Primates of Orthodox Churches.
On Sunday afternoon, Patriarch Daniel met with Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki at a central hotel in the city.
Metropolitan Philotheos welcomed the Patriarch, and the two discussed the organization and content of the Conference, emphasizing its importance in a time of great challenges. Patriarch Daniel, for his part, thanked the Metropolitan of Thessaloniki and Mr. Katsiara for the invitation and warm reception, and expressed his excitement over the centenary of continuous publication of the journal. In their brief meeting of about 15 minutes, the two hierarchs also conveyed mutual respect for one another, while Patriarch Daniel expressed his joy at being in Thessaloniki.
Later, at the same hotel, the Bulgarian Patriarch met with Minister of Education and Religious Affairs, Mrs. Zaharaki. The Minister, who is attending the Conference as a government representative, stressed that it was an honor both for herself and for the Greek government that the Patriarch of Bulgaria was visiting Greece.
The meeting lasted about an hour. It remains unknown whether Patriarch Daniel will have a private meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. It is worth noting, however, that both are staying at the same hotel.
