The Ecumenical Patriarch goes to Bulgaria for the anniversary celebrations in honor of Saint John of Rilatranslated

Today, Saturday October 17, 2026, the Ecumenical Patriarch, Mr. Bartholomew, in order to participate in the celebrations for the completion of 1,150 years since the birth and 1,080 years since the sleep of Saint John of Rila the Wonderworker, patron of the Bulgarian people.

The visit takes place following an invitation from the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church - Patriarchate of Bulgaria, which was conveyed to the Ecumenical Patriarch last July by a church delegation led by Metropolitan Ruse Mr. Naum. The delegation was also attended by the Bishop of Melenikos, Mr. Gerasimos, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod, and Dr. Alexander Smoczewski.

During their visit to Istanbul, the members of the delegation met with Mr. Bartholomew and presented him with the official invitation, conveying at the same time the greetings of the Patriarch of Bulgaria Mr. Daniel and the Holy Synod. The meeting took place in the church of Agia Kyriaki, in Kontoskali, where a solemn Divine Liturgy had been celebrated for the saint's feast day.

According to the official program, the reception of the Ecumenical…