Patr. Daniel Urges Prudence in Debate over Bartholomew’s Visit

SOFIA, BULGARIA — Patr. Daniel of Bulgaria urged Orthodox Christians to weigh their personal views against the collective judgment of the Church after parishioners criticized the Bulgarian Orthodox Church’s decision to invite Patr. Bartholomew of Constantinople to visit the country.

Speaking after Divine Liturgy at Sofia’s Cathedral of the Holy Great Martyr Nedelya on October 25, 2026, the Bulgarian primate emphasized that the invitation had been approved by the Holy Synod rather than decided by him alone. “And as I verify my opinion, so you should verify yours,” he told those who expressed dissatisfaction.

Patr. Daniel thanked the faithful for openly voicing their concerns but cautioned against refusing to engage with differing perspectives. “It’s not about me. Conscience must be reconciled with the conciliar mind of the Church,” he said, urging believers to approach disagreements through dialogue and careful consideration.

He also warned against allowing church gatherings to become unproductive arguments. “Let’s not turn church meetings into chatter,” the Patriarch said, adding that while people should discuss issues that trouble them, they must exercise prudence in reaching judgments.

Patr. Bartholomew visited Bulgaria from October 17 to 19 at the invitation of the Holy Synod, attending events marking anniversaries associated with St. John of Rila. The visit prompted opposition from some Bulgarian clergy, monastics, and laypeople, who had appealed to the Synod in September to withdraw the invitation.

Patr. Daniel also conveyed blessings from the Holy Mountain and invited the faithful to gather again at the cathedral on October 30 for the commemoration of St. King Stephen Milutin.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Daniel was welcomed at Mt. Athos on his first visit as Bulgarian Patriarch.