Bulgarian Metropolitan Opposes Pagan Monument in Central Vidin

VIDIN, BULGARIA — Metr. Pachomius of Vidin has called for the removal of a monument to the pagan Egyptian deity Isis recently placed in the central part of the Bulgarian city. In an open letter dated October 5 to Vidin Mayor Tsvetan Tsenkov, the Metropolitan said the monument was inconsistent with the city’s Christian heritage and urged local authorities to reconsider its placement.

Metr. Pachomius emphasized Vidin’s longstanding importance as an Orthodox Christian center, pointing to its historic churches and the Cathedral of St. Demetrius of Thessaloniki, which is marking the centenary of its consecration. He also cited Bulgarian saints, clergy, rulers, and martyrs who contributed to the establishment and preservation of Christianity in the region.

The Metropolitan argued that the issue extends beyond art or aesthetics, saying public monuments carry spiritual, historical, and cultural significance. He cited several New Testament passages warning Christians against idolatry, including Christ’s command to worship God alone and the Apostle Paul’s exhortation to “flee from idolatry.”

Metr. Pachomius called on authorities to take timely action to review and remove the monument. He also appealed to Vidin residents to discuss peacefully what symbols should be displayed in the city and urged Orthodox Christians to express their opposition “peacefully and with dignity.”

Previously, the UOJ reported that a new Orthodox catechism addressed the challenges of a neo-pagan age.