The Patriarch of Moscow extended heartfelt congratulations to the new Primate of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Daniel, on his election and enthronement.
“On behalf of the hierarchs, clergy, monastics, and the entire Plenitude of the Russian Orthodox Church, as well as on my own behalf, I cordially congratulate you on your election and elevation to the Bulgarian Patriarchal Throne,” the Patriarch of Moscow stated.
“It pleased the Holy Spirit and the venerable participants of the Patriarchal Election Church Council (Acts 15:28) to call you to a high and responsible primatial ministry, entrusting you with the fate of Bulgarian Orthodoxy,” he continued.
“In your person, the Church of St. John of Rila and St. Euphemius of Tarnovo has now found its new Primate — a worthy successor to the ever-memorable Patriarchs of Bulgaria Kirill, Maxim, and Neofyt, by whom much has been done to preserve the paternal spiritual traditions and establish their flock in the holy Orthodox faith,” he emphasized.
“The Russian Orthodox Church today sincerely rejoices with the beloved Sister Church, now led by a wise hierarch, known for his piety, firm commitment to the sacred canonical order, and readiness for sacrificial work in the name of strengthening church unity,” the Patriarch underscored.
He concluded: “We believe that Your Holiness will write new bright pages in the glorious centuries-old history of relations between our Churches. On this significant day, I prayerfully wish you good health, unfailing joy in the Lord, and His all-powerful help for many years of blessed Patriarchate, full of fruitful achievements, and the God-preserved flock of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church — prosperity and peace.”
Translated from Russian: Konstantinos Menyktas
