International Orthodox Youth Gather at Kremikovtsi Monastery
Orthodox youth from around the world gathered at Kremikovtsi Monastery for prayer, learning, and cultural exchange.
SOFIA, BULGARIA — From January 30 to February 3, the Kremikovtsi Monastery near Sofia hosted the 2026 celebration of the World Day of Orthodox Youth. The international gathering, organized by SUPRASL, the Bulgarian Orthodox Youth Community, and Romania’s ASCOR Iași, took place with the blessing of His Holiness Patr. Daniel of Bulgaria and drew more than 60 participants from countries including Israel and the United States.
The program combined prayer, discussion, and cultural exchange. The opening sessions highlighted SUPRASL’s mission of fostering unity among Orthodox youth across national and cultural boundaries. Fr. Seraphim, Abbot of Kremikovtsi, spoke about the monastery’s social ministries, including support for people with disabilities and children with mental health challenges. Participants also enjoyed a monastery tour, a hike, and reflections on sharing faith in daily life.
Festal services marked both the 130th anniversary of St. Sophrony the Athonite and the Feast of the Meeting of the Lord. Activities included multilingual Divine Liturgies, workshops on spiritual growth, small-group discussions on faith and vocation, and visits to historic churches and a children’s social rehabilitation center.
Previously, the UOJ reported that over 200 youth attended 46th annual St. Herman Conference in Albany.
