Bartholomew and Daniel in Sofia: Prayers for peace and call for dialogue

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria delivered messages of peace, unity and dialogue on Sunday, October 18, 2026, upon their arrival at the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky in Sofia, where they attended a concelebrated Divine Liturgy.

The two Primates emphasized the need for peace throughout the world, as well as the importance of communication and cooperation in overcoming differences.

Speaking to journalists, the Ecumenical Patriarch expressed his joy at returning to Bulgaria at the invitation of Patriarch Daniel and the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

“I am delighted to visit Bulgaria, your beautiful and hospitable country, once again,” he said, highlighting the fraternal ties he has developed with the Bulgarian Patriarch during their recent meetings in Turkey.

Patriarch Bartholomew placed particular emphasis on the need for peace, noting that their prayers at the cathedral would focus on both world peace and the unity of the Churches.

“Today, in the magnificent Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, we will pray for peace throughout the world. At this moment, the world is in urgent need of peace,” he stated.…