Last Saturday, while attending a traditional event in Dambovița County that was organised by the Bulgarian community, Vice-President of Bulgaria Iliana Iotova met with Patriarchal Exarch and Archbishop of Târgoviște His Eminence Hon Metropolitan Nifon.
According to the Archdiocese of Târgoviște, the discussions spanned several subjects of mutual interest to the two nations and the sister Orthodox churches.
The personality of Patriarch Neophyte of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, who recently reposed in the Lord, and his contribution to religious education in Bulgarian society and within the inter-Orthodox dialogue were recalled.
During the discussions, the significance of the Orthodox Church in safeguarding and advancing national identity throughout the historical journeys of Bulgaria and Romania, as well as in surmounting obstacles and challenges encountered along the way, was examined.
It was emphasised that Orthodoxy must strengthen its presence in the European Union by promoting its distinctive values as a significant support for the continent’s continued unity. Furthermore, the collaboration between the two Churches and their vital contribution to modern society were highlighted.
In addition, emphasis was placed on the contribution of Bulgarians in Romania and Romanians in Bulgaria to strengthening the Churches’ collaboration between the two countries.
Vice President Iliana Iotova of Bulgaria attended the “Tudorita” or “Easter of the Horses” (Konski Velikden) celebration, which was organised in Targovişte by the “ZAEDNO” Association of Bulgarians.
The celebration is founded upon the historic practice of Bulgarian gardeners, who would ride their horses to the church on the first Saturday of Lent to obtain the priest’s blessing.
Photo: Facebook / Iliana Iotova
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