Patriarch of Bulgaria: Christians in Jerusalem demonstrate strong spirit of solidarity

Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel presided over a festive Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Protection of the Mother of God in Sofia on October 1, marking the church’s patronal feast. During the celebration, he ordained a new priest, honored the parish rector and shared his impressions from his recent visit to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem.

The Divine Liturgy was concelebrated by Metropolitan Anthony of Western and Central Europe, Economos Vasil Tanev, Stavrophore Economos Angel Yankov, Archpriest Georgi Yankov, rector of the church, and other clergy from Sofia.

Numerous faithful gathered for the celebration, with liturgical hymns performed by the parish choir under the direction of Dimitar Stoyanov.

At the beginning of the service, Patriarch Daniel tonsured Vladimir and Georgi as readers and candle-bearers. During the Divine Liturgy, he ordained Deacon Hristo Hristov to the priesthood, emphasizing the profound responsibility of priestly ministry.

Addressing the newly ordained priest, the Patriarch stressed that the priesthood is a divine gift entrusted to human beings for the salvation of others. He encouraged Father Hristo to preserve his faith, approach every liturgical…