Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel Says Bulgarian Orthodox Church Does Not Recognize OCU and Supports UOC

Patriarch Daniel of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church has reiterated the position of his church regarding the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), stating that it does not recognize the OCU and continues to support the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) led by Metropolitan Onuphry. In an interview with the Question of Measure program, he emphasized that the Bulgarian Orthodox Church aligns with the majority of Local Orthodox Churches in its stance.

“Our position is the same balanced position held by the other eleven Local Orthodox Churches that have not recognized this church structure in Ukraine,” Patriarch Daniel said. “Therefore, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church stands with the majority of the Orthodox Churches.” This statement reflects the broader consensus among many Orthodox jurisdictions that the OCU’s autocephaly, or independence, was not properly recognized in accordance with canonical procedures.

Patriarch Daniel clarified that the Bulgarian Orthodox Church’s position should not be interpreted as support for the Russian Orthodox Church. He noted that his church maintains Eucharistic communion with Constantinople and continues to concelebrate with its representatives. This underscores the complex interplay between canonical decisions and geopolitical considerations within the Orthodox world.

He further argued that the eleven Churches not recognizing the OCU cannot reasonably be accused of aligning with Moscow. “For example, to whom is the Albanian Church supposedly aligned?” he asked, highlighting the need for respect toward the institutional decisions of Orthodox Churches. Patriarch Daniel called on critics to show more respect for the authority and decisions of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

The Patriarch also referenced his earlier support for Bulgaria’s decision not to back sanctions against Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church. This aligns with his broader stance of maintaining canonical and ecclesiastical independence from external political pressures.

The situation reflects a broader tension within the Orthodox world, where canonical decisions often intersect with national and political dynamics. As the Orthodox Churches navigate these challenges, the call for unity, respect, and adherence to canonical tradition remains central to their mission. Micah 6:8 reminds us that what God requires is to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God—a principle that continues to guide the faithful in their discernment and actions.

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