On Saturday, November 23, 2024, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain represented Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the Divine Liturgy held in the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky in Sofia, Bulgaria, for the 10th Anniversary of the consecration of the Cathedral.
The day commenced with the formal reception of hierarchs in the vestry of the historic cathedral, where they prepared for the liturgical celebration. Archbishop Nikitas, along with other Orthodox leaders, came together to partake in the Divine Liturgy in a spirit of prayer and unity.
At 9:00 AM, Patriarch Daniil of Bulgaria was welcomed with prayers of entrance. The Divine Liturgy commenced shortly after, at 9:30 AM, in the magnificent surroundings of the Cathedral. This significant event brought hierarchs, clergy, and faithful from various parts of the Orthodox world, celebrating the richness of Orthodox liturgical tradition and the connections that bind the Local Orthodox Churches to one another in the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.
Following the Liturgy, a celebratory luncheon took place at a nearby hotel, where Archbishop Nikitas joined Patriarch Daniil, fellow hierarchs, and honored guests in a spirit of camaraderie and shared joy.
In a letter of gratitude to Patriarch Daniil, Archbishop Nikitas expressed the joy of his visit and the deep connection he felt with the Church and people of Bulgaria. He expressed his hope for this bond to continue growing, fostering greater collaboration in the mission and testimony of the Church globally.
The Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain, along with Archbishop Nikitas, pray for the ongoing strengthening of love and unity across the Orthodox Church worldwide.
Photo credit: Bulgarian Patriarchate, BTA
