Patriarch of Bulgaria addresses pastoral challenges as Sofia clergy back Church unity and canonical order

A regular clergy conference was held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the Sofia Holy Metropolis, bringing together rectors and clergy from churches across the Bulgarian capital.

The conference, held with the blessing of Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria, Metropolitan of Sofia, took place in the “Exarch Stefan” Hall and focused on the theme of “Pastoral Ministry.” It had been convened a week earlier in response to current issues concerning pastoral care and the spiritual guidance of the faithful.

Patriarch Daniel presided over the meeting, which was also attended by Bishop Yoan of Branitsa, First Vicar of the Metropolitan of Sofia, and Bishop Isaac of Velbazhd, Second Vicar of the Metropolitan.

In his opening remarks, Patriarch Daniel said that one of the principal reasons for convening the conference was the pastoral challenges surrounding the administration of the Holy Mystery of Repentance and Confession, which many priests face amid the difficulties of contemporary life.

The Patriarch stressed the need to revive the ancient Church practice whereby newly ordained priests receive explicit written permission from their diocesan bishop before being authorised to hear…