Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia and Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria have expressed their heartfelt condolences over the passing of Metropolitan Timothy of Debar, who fell asleep in the Lord at the age of 74 on Monday, November 25.
In a letter addressed to Archbishop Stefan of Ohrid, Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia conveyed his profound sorrow over the loss of a hierarch who played a pivotal role in restoring unity between the Serbian Orthodox Church and the Church of North Macedonia.
The Serbian Patriarch described the late Metropolitan as a devoted servant of the Church, whose collaborative efforts with clergy and laity helped heal the wounds of a longstanding schism.
“With the shortest and truest words, we felt Bishop Timothy as our closest brother in Christ,” wrote Patriarch Porfirije. He concluded the letter by offering prayers for the eternal repose of the late Metropolitan Timothy’s soul.
Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria also expressed his condolences in a letter to Archbishop Stefan of Ohrid, praising Metropolitan Timothy’s remarkable contributions and his connection to the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.
“We will remember him as an exceptional bishop and a good friend of the Holy Bulgarian Orthodox Church,” wrote Patriarch Daniel, recalling Metropolitan Timothy’s participation earlier this year in the funeral of the late Patriarch Neophyte of Bulgaria and in the election and enthronement of his own primacy.
The Bulgarian Patriarch highlighted the late Metropolitan’s piety and lifelong dedication to the mission of the Holy Church of Christ.
He concluded his message with solidarity toward the Archdiocese of Ohrid, stating, “We express our sincere condolences for this separation from our departed brother!”
Sources: Patriarchate of Serbia / Patriarchate of Bulgaria
