Phanar head: Bulgarian Church could mediate between us and ROC

Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: screenshot of the BNT YouTube channel

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew stated that the Bulgarian Orthodox Church could serve as a mediator between the Phanar and the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC), UOJ-Bulgaria reports.

Asked whether the Bulgarian Church could play a role in overcoming divisions in the Orthodox world, the Phanar head said: "The Bulgarian Church is a sister Local Church that maintains good relations with both the Russian Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. It could play a mediating role, helping to promote unity among the Churches for the glory of God."

At the same time, Patriarch Bartholomew placed all responsibility for the current crisis on Moscow. He believes the situation can be healed through "repentance, sincerity, prayer" and an awareness of responsibility for the future of Orthodoxy.

The Phanar head also acknowledged that Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria, while serving as Metropolitan of Vidin, had written him a "not particularly friendly" letter. However, according to the Ecumenical Patriarch, after they met in Thessaloniki, the Bulgarian Primate suggested that they "forget about that letter," and the two now share a "sincere friendship."

The Bulgarian Orthodox Church has not recognized the OCU. Patriarch Daniel, who was elected Primate of the Bulgarian Church on June 30, 2024, was one of the most consistent opponents of recognizing Dumenko's organization during his tenure as Metropolitan of Vidin.

Patriarch Bartholomew personally attended Daniel's enthronement, marking the first time in history that an Ecumenical Patriarch had participated in the enthronement of a Bulgarian Patriarch. In December 2025, Patriarch Daniel visited the Phanar.

As the UOJ previously reported, Patriarch Daniel called for resolving disagreements within the Church through dialogue.

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