From September 21-25, 2024, Archimandrite Bartholomew, the Abbot of the Holy Monastery of Esphigmenos, along with Athonite monks, undertook a pilgrimage to Bulgaria. The purpose of the journey was to participate in a vigil and Divine Liturgy on September 22-23, following the Athonite rite, in honor of Saint Silouan the Athonite at the Holy Monastery of the St. Unmercenaries in Pernik, Bulgaria.
Archimandrite Bartholomew was invited by Archimandrite Nikanoros, the Abbot of the Holy Monastery of St. Unmercenaries, with the blessing and canonical permission of Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria. The event brought together clergy from Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia, and Russia, fostering a sense of unity and devotion among participants from across the Balkans. This gathering served as a counterpoint to the divisive influences perpetuated by external political forces, particularly the Kremlin’s involvement in the region.
During his sermon, Abbot Bartholomew stressed the importance of “pan-Balkan unity,” emphasizing that faith in God transcends the artificial barriers created by politicians based on ethnic distinctions. He conveyed a powerful message of solidarity, highlighting the unifying nature of faith.
A notable aspect of the visit was the shared concern expressed by many in Bulgaria—both clergy and laity—regarding the ongoing occupation of the Esphigmenos Monastery and the increasing influence of Russian nationalism on Mount Athos. The interventions by Russian authorities also sparked significant discussion.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
