Bulgaria: The hierarch who served with the OCU could become patriarch

Metropolitan Anthony (left) and Metropolitan Nicholas. Photo: glasove.com

Metropolitan Anthony of Western and Central Europe of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church stated that Metropolitan Nicholas of Plovdiv has not officially submitted a resignation from the candidacy for the position of Patriarch to the Holy Synod.

In the program "The Day Begins", Metropolitan Anthony explained that on June 20, the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Church will gather to elect three candidates from whom the new Patriarch will be chosen.

"The election of the new Patriarch and his enthronement will take place on June 30, so that he can conduct his first Holy Liturgy on July 1," explained Metropolitan Anthony.

He neither confirmed nor denied whether Metropolitan Nicholas of Plovdiv would participate in the elections for the new head of the Bulgarian Church, noting that Metropolitan Nicholas has not officially withdrawn his candidacy for this position.

Earlier, it was reported that Metropolitan Nicholas had withdrawn his candidacy from the Bulgarian Patriarchal elections and subsequently served with Zoria and Lotysh in Phanar.

Later, it was revealed in Bulgaria who might become the new Patriarch.

Read also

Interview with His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas, First Hierarch of ROCOR

The Southern Clergy Retreat and the Growth of Orthodoxy in the South

Eastern American Diocese (ROCOR) Southern Great Lenten Clergy Retreat

Atlanta, GA – Clergy from the Southern deaneries of the Eastern American Diocese gathered earlier this week for the Southern Great Lenten Clergy Retreat. 

Christian Orthodox Coalition Calls for Action Amid Syrian Crisis

March 19, 2025 – The Christian Orthodox Coalition in the United States has issued a powerful statement condemning the ongoing persecution of Orthodox Christians in war-torn Syria.

EP Hopes US Visit Will Boost Abp. Elpidophoros' Declining Influence

The National Herald reports that Patriarch Bartholomew will travel to America to seek new connections with Washington and support Archbishop Elpidophoros.

Metropolitan Joan of Korca elected as Primate of the Albanian Orthodox Church

Albanian Orthodox Church Elevates Met. Joan (Pelushi) to Primate After Archbishop Anastasi’s Repose

The 17th Anniversary of the Repose of Met. Laurus (Shkurla), First Hierarch of the ROCOR

Parishes of the Eastern American Diocese (ROCOR) lifted up their prayers in remembrance of the much-loved Vladyka Laurus on the anniversary of his repose.