Patr. Daniel Backs Patr. Theophilos’ Initiative to Mediate Ukraine Peace

JERUSALEM — As reported by UOJ-Bulgaria, Patr. Daniel of Bulgaria expressed support for Patr. Theophilos III of Jerusalem’s initiative to mediate peace between Ukraine and Russia, describing the effort as a witness to the Church’s calling to reconciliation.

Patr. Daniel made the remarks during his recent visit to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, where he and Patr. Theophilos concelebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on September 27. The Bulgarian Patriarch’s visit began September 25 and continues through September 30.

Addressing Patr. Theophilos, Patr. Daniel specifically praised his initiative to mediate an end to the war in Ukraine. “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,” he said.

Patr. Daniel added that he sees the initiative as reflecting the Church’s responsibility to work toward reconciliation. “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 unheard,” he said.

The Bulgarian Primate connected the appeal for peace in Ukraine with the celebration of the Cross, saying that Christians should maintain faith that peace remains possible. His remarks came during a visit marked by the strengthening of ties between the Bulgarian and Jerusalem Patriarchates.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Theophilos III planned meetings with Putin and Zelensky to pursue peace in Ukraine.