Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria was visited at the Synodal Palace by Mrs. Yordanka Chobanova, the Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria. During the meeting, Mrs. Chobanova congratulated Patriarch Daniel on his election and expressed her best wishes for his ministry within the Orthodox Church of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian people. She also highlighted the European Commission Representation’s willingness to collaborate with the Church on various socially significant issues. Mrs. Chobanova concluded by wishing Patriarch Daniel strength and divine guidance in his important role.
In response, Patriarch Daniel emphasized the Church’s crucial role in safeguarding humanity and protecting souls from the harmful effects of sin. He stressed the importance of the Church as a partner to the European Commission and shared his desire to implement beneficial initiatives in collaboration with neighboring countries. Mrs. Chobanova acknowledged the need for spiritual leaders in society due to existing divisions.
The discussion also touched upon the Orthodox Church of Bulgaria’s participation in the Committee of Representatives of Orthodox Churches in the EU, led by Metropolitan Anthony of Western and Central Europe. At the end of the meeting, Patriarch Daniel presented Mrs. Chobanova with an icon of the Lord Jesus Christ as a symbol of protection and assistance in her role as the Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria.
