Patr. Daniel Joins More Than 100 Pilgrims on Journey to Rila Monastery

SOFIA, BULGARIA — More than 100 Orthodox Christians from Bulgaria and abroad have completed the annual “Rila Wonderworker” pilgrimage, walking approximately 75 miles from Sofia to Rila Monastery in honor of St. John of Rila.

The pilgrimage began Aug. 1 and follows the route associated with the 1469 transfer of St. John’s relics from Tarnovgrad through Sofia to Rila Monastery. Participants stopped along the way for Divine services, prayers, and hymns dedicated to God, the Theotokos, and the patron saint of Bulgaria.

On Aug. 5, Patr. Daniel joined the pilgrims for the third time, walking to the Seven Rila Lakes at an elevation of 7,490 feet. At Lake Babreka, he participated in the traditional blessing of the waters alongside Bp. Ioan of Branitsa, Bp. Hierotheos of Agathopolis, and clergy of the Sofia Metropolis.

Following the service, Patr. Daniel encouraged the pilgrims to serve as examples to those beginning their journey toward the Orthodox faith. He also recalled St. John of Rila’s spiritual testament, urging Christians to resist greed, preserve unity, and avoid discord and division.

The pilgrims then continued to Rila Monastery, where the pilgrimage concluded. On the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, they participated in a hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the monastery’s Cathedral of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Bulgarian Diaspora Diocese voiced support for Patr. Daniel amid a public dispute.