On August 5th, Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria visited the Church of the Transfiguration on the eve of the feast of the Transfiguration. This church, located in the Borovets resort complex, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year.
The Church of the Transfiguration is the only wooden church in Bulgaria, consecrated on September 23, 1934, by Exarch Stefan. After three years of being closed for renovations, it reopened in April.
Patriarch Daniel was welcomed by the clergy of Samokov and the mayor of Samokov Municipality, Engineer Angel Dzhorgov. He conducted a festive vespers to celebrate the church’s feast, with attendees including municipal and state authorities, resort guests, residents of Samokov Municipality, clergy, and laypeople.
In his address to the congregation, Patriarch Daniel expressed his joy at being able to serve in the renovated church once again. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming feast of the Transfiguration and the spiritual significance of the church.
The Patriarch reflected on the Gospel story of the Transfiguration, highlighting the need for cleansing the heart and attaining humility before God. He explained the Orthodox theology of divine nature and divine energies, emphasizing the communication with God through His grace.
