The Bulgarian Patriarchate on the reactions during the visit of the Ecumenical Patriarchtranslated

Response to reactions caused by the visit of His Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch, Mr. Bartholomew in Bulgaria, on the occasion of the celebrations of St. John of Rila, the Patriarchate of Bulgaria announces. In the announcement issued by the Orthodox Church in Bulgaria, it is stated:

" With pastoral care we appeal to the clergy and the faithful regarding some extreme positions, reckless statements and unjustified fears that have arisen around this visit. We call for sobriety and prudence, as well as to avoid condemnation and hasty conclusions.

We remind you that the Orthodox Church in Bulgaria - Patriarchate of Bulgaria maintains full Eucharistic and canonical communion with the Patriarchate of Constantinople, as well as with the rest of the Local Orthodox Churches. This communion is an expression of our unity in the Orthodox faith and our belonging to the one, holy, universal and apostolic Church. Its preservation is the responsibility of all of us."

The announcement condemns the attitude of some Orthodox Christians towards the Hierarchs of the Church. As highlighted:

"Let's protect ourselves from...