On Saturday, August 3, 2024, Patriarch Daniil of Bulgaria, temporarily overseeing the Vidin Diocese, welcomed US Ambassador to Bulgaria, Kenneth H. Merten, to the town of Vidin.
Ambassador Merten was accompanied by his spouse, Suzanne Merten, the Deputy Speaker of the Bulgarian National Assembly, Rositsa Kirova, and the Mayor of Vidin, Dr. Tsvetan Tsenkov.
Patriarch Daniil showed Ambassador Merten the mausoleum of the first Bulgarian Exarch, Anthim I. He explained Exarch Anthim’s significant role in advancing Western diplomacy following the brutal suppression of the April Uprising of 1876 and in the liberation of Bulgaria from Ottoman rule.
Patriarch Daniil also discussed the life and work of the Vidin Metropolitans from the Liberation to the present day. The guests visited the Church of St. Panteleimon, which dates back to the early 17th century, and were impressed by the restoration and conservation efforts as well as the beauty of the frescoes.
The meeting continued in the Metropolitan building, where the host and guests exchanged gifts.
Source: bg-patriarshia.bg
