Bulgarian Church condemns AI advert featuring bishop's footage and voice
Metropolitan Gabriel of Lovech. Photo: Lovech Metropolis of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church
On August 10, 2026, the Lovech Metropolis of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church issued an official refutation of an advertisement circulating on Facebook that used AI-generated footage of Metropolitan Gabriel and a voice imitation.
The diocese stated that Metropolitan Gabriel does not and has never advertised medications, medical devices, or any other goods and services in the media or on social networks.
The refutation was prompted by a video that appeared on Facebook. The diocese noted that artificial intelligence was used to alter the bishop’s voice and image and use them for advertising purposes. Metropolitan Gabriel himself had no involvement in creating the video.
"The message contained in it is completely distorted and has no relation to Orthodox spirituality or the teaching of the Church," the Lovech Metropolis emphasized.
The diocese urged users not to fall victim to such "malicious manipulation." The relevant authorities have already been notified about the distribution of the video so that measures can be taken to have it removed.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Bulgarian clergy abroad condemned the words of a cleric who served with the OCU.
Read also
Volodymyr persecuted community of Dormition Church marks its patronal feast
The Volodymyr community of the UOC continues to hold services in temporary facilities following the seizure of the Dormition Cathedral.
His Beatitude gives school backpacks to 200 displaced children
After a prayer service marking the start of the school year, the UOC Primate gave displaced children school backpacks and essential supplies.
Armenia to restore 5th-century church built on ancient pagan sanctuary
Armenia is preparing to restore an ancient Christian church built on the site of a pagan sanctuary.
DESS demands Zaporizhzhia Eparchy sever ties with UOC Kyiv Metropolia
The leadership of the UOC Zaporizhzhia Eparchy said it had received DESS documents alleging signs of affiliation with the Russian Orthodox Church.
Patriarchate of Constantinople canonizes six Athonite elders
The Constantinople Patriarchate canonized six Athonite ascetics, including four elders of Romanian origin, as well as Tikhon the Confessor and Georgios Hadjigeorgis.
UOC Rivne Eparchy cleric visits priests serving in Ukrainian Armed Forces
Archpriest Volodymyr Pekach visited military units and training grounds, where he heard the confessions of clergy serving in the military and gave them Holy Communion.