Patriarch Daniel calls for dialogue to overcome divisions in Church
The Bulgarian Primate explained the significance of joint celebrations with Patriarch Bartholomew amid ongoing disagreements.
On October 18, 2026, Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria called for overcoming divisions in the Orthodox world through dialogue rather than confrontation. He made the remarks in Sofia while commenting on Patriarch Bartholomew's visit, UOJ-Bulgaria reports.
The Bulgarian Primate said that their joint participation in celebrations honoring St. John of Rila, despite existing disagreements, demonstrates the importance of maintaining dialogue and seeking solutions to problems. The celebrations mark the 1,150th anniversary of the saint's birth and the 1,080th anniversary of his repose.
Patriarch Daniel emphasized that the veneration of saints is important to the entire Orthodox world because they stand before God and pray for all people. He said that reverence for the saints helps believers partake of the divine grace bestowed upon them.
Patriarch Bartholomew arrived in Bulgaria on October 17 for a three-day visit at the invitation of the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. Ahead of his arrival, approximately 2,300 people signed an open letter opposing the visit, accusing the head of the Patriarchate of Constantinople of ecumenism and departing from the Orthodox faith.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Patriarch Bartholomew was not expected to concelebrate with the Bulgarian Primate.
