Bulgarian Primate supports Patriarch Theophilos' initiative on Ukraine

Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel. Photo: bg-patriarshia.bg

The Primate of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Daniel, expressed support for the peacemaking initiative of Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem to mediate peace between Ukraine and Russia, reports the UOJ in Bulgaria.

Speaking in the Throne Room of the Jerusalem Patriarchate following a concelebrated service at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Patriarch Daniel emphasized that the true calling of the Church is manifested in the striving to end the war.

"With deep respect and hope we received the news of Your noble initiative to mediate a lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia and to end the terrible war that has claimed the lives of so many of our brothers and sisters, Orthodox Christians," the Bulgarian Primate addressed Patriarch Theophilos III. "In Your peacemaking efforts we see a living testimony to the Church's calling to heal the wounds of division and to call for reconciliation even when the voice of peace seems inaudible."

The Primate of the Bulgarian Church emphasized that the prayer for the end of the conflict and the restoration of unity is invariably joined with faith in Christ's victory. "Today, here, in the very heart of Christianity, where our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ rose from the dead, we raise His life-giving and victorious Cross with unwavering faith that evil does not have the last word, that peace is possible, and that the Crucifixion is followed by the Resurrection!" the Bulgarian First Hierarch stressed.

In addition, Patriarch Daniel drew attention to the severe trials and military conflicts shaking the Middle East, which are forcing many Christians to leave their native lands. He assured the Patriarch of Jerusalem of the unceasing prayers and support of the entire Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel arrived in Jerusalem.

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