Bulgarian Church reports deepfake featuring its primate to police
Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel. Photo: Golosa
On February 11, 2026, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church reported the online spread of an AI-generated fake video featuring Patriarch Daniel, according to the Chancellery of the Sofia Metropolis.
The statement notes that a video is being circulated on Facebook in which the image and voice of the Bulgarian Patriarch and Metropolitan of Sofia, Daniel, have been replaced and presented in a manipulative context. It is emphasized that the BOC Primate has no connection whatsoever to the creation of this clip.
The Metropolis specifically pointed out that Patriarch Daniel does not advertise goods or services in the media or on social networks, and that the content of the circulated video has nothing to do with Orthodox spirituality or the Church’s teaching.
The Sofia Metropolis called on believers and the public not to fall for such manipulations and said that the materials have been forwarded to the competent state authorities for legal assessment.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Bulgaria will allocate 1.5 million euros for building a road to the Zograf Monastery on Mount Athos.
Read also
In Madrid, thousands of people march against abortion and euthanasia
Annual march "Sí a la Vida" ("Yes to Life") took place in Spain.
Rivne Eparchy hosts Orthodox youth congress "Unity Cup"
Orthodox youth of the Dubno region gathered for joint prayer, fellowship and spiritual strengthening.
Vučić on pilgrimage to Belt of Theotokos in Belgrade: I am proud of such Serbia
The President of Serbia noted the atmosphere of peace and reverence for the shrine in the Saint Sava Cathedral.
New church laid on site of burned 17th-century church in Ivashkovytsia
In the Zakarpattia region, the clergy consecrated the foundation of a new church that will replace the 1658 St. Michael Church, which was destroyed in a fire.
UCCRO calls on the West to step up military support for Ukraine
Religious leaders said that active support is the only way to stop aggression and prevent the spread of war around the world.
UOC bishop offers condolences to families of victims killed in Dnipro strike
Metropolitan Irynei called on clergy and laity to offer special prayers for all victims of the attack that took place on the night of June 2.