Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria, together with the Metropolitans of the Holy Synod, received the Speaker of the National Assembly, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Natalia Kiselova, and the Deputy Speakers of Parliament.
During the meeting, Patriarch Daniel blessed the parliamentary representatives and stressed the significance of cooperation between the Church and the state. He congratulated Natalia Kiselova on her appointment as Speaker of the 51st National Assembly, wishing her success in facing challenges and expressing satisfaction that the legislative body is now fully operational.
In response, Speaker Kiselova expressed optimism for continued fruitful collaboration between the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the National Assembly. She recognized the Church’s crucial role as a stabilizing influence on the Bulgarian spirit throughout history and its ongoing importance in supporting the nation during tough times. Kiselova emphasized the Orthodox Church’s role as a guardian of spiritual values for the people and the need for joint efforts to advance the country.
Role of the Church in Education and Moral Guidance
During the discussion, the Patriarch underscored the Church’s essential role in instilling moral values, patriotism, and traditional virtues in the younger generation. He emphasized that the negative behaviors observed in society stem from spiritual emptiness, highlighting the importance of self-reflection and acknowledging mistakes for progress.
The meeting also touched upon the introduction of “Religion” as a mandatory subject in Bulgarian schools. Speaker Kiselova expressed confidence that the relevant parliamentary committee would work effectively with the Bulgarian Orthodox Church to advance this proposal.
Exchange of Gifts
As a gesture of goodwill, Speaker Kiselova presented Patriarch Daniel with the commemorative album “145 Years of the Bulgarian Parliament” and an honorary plaque from the National Assembly.
In return, Patriarch Daniel gifted Speaker Kiselova with a set of silver coins depicting Bulgaria’s prominent monasteries, a commemorative coin marking the anniversary of the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, and the book “The Civil Law Status of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church” by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Kyoseva, a legal advisor to the Holy Synod.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting spiritual and social well-being in Bulgaria.
Source and photos: Bulgarian Patriarchate
Can you rewrite this sentence?
Source link