Bulgaria: The hierarch who served with the OCU could become patriarch

Metropolitan Anthony (left) and Metropolitan Nicholas. Photo: glasove.com
Metropolitan Anthony of Western and Central Europe of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church stated that Metropolitan Nicholas of Plovdiv has not officially submitted a resignation from the candidacy for the position of Patriarch to the Holy Synod.
In the program "The Day Begins", Metropolitan Anthony explained that on June 20, the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Church will gather to elect three candidates from whom the new Patriarch will be chosen.
"The election of the new Patriarch and his enthronement will take place on June 30, so that he can conduct his first Holy Liturgy on July 1," explained Metropolitan Anthony.
He neither confirmed nor denied whether Metropolitan Nicholas of Plovdiv would participate in the elections for the new head of the Bulgarian Church, noting that Metropolitan Nicholas has not officially withdrawn his candidacy for this position.
Earlier, it was reported that Metropolitan Nicholas had withdrawn his candidacy from the Bulgarian Patriarchal elections and subsequently served with Zoria and Lotysh in Phanar.
Later, it was revealed in Bulgaria who might become the new Patriarch.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.