Statement by the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church Regarding the Offensive Statements and Defamatory Allegations Made by Archimandrite Nikanor (Mishkov) Against the Bulgarian Patriarch and the Bulgarian Orthodox Church—Bulgarian Patriarchate

The Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church—Bulgarian Patriarchate categorically distances itself from the publicly defamatory statements made by Archimandrite Nikanor (Mishkov), a clergyman of the Diocese of Sofia who is subject to the canonical interdict of “argos,” and condemns them, as they are directed against the Bulgarian Orthodox Church—Bulgarian Patriarchate, as well as against the institution and person of the Bulgarian Patriarch. We declare that the systematic offensive and blasphemous statements of the aforementioned clergyman, who presents himself as a judge of everything and everyone, are unacceptable and sow widespread deception among the faithful.

We, the members of the Holy Synod, do not accept the use of the Holy Church for political purposes, nor do we accept this clergyman’s portrayal of himself as a political victim.

We declare that any encroachment upon the unity of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church — the Bulgarian Patriarchate — or incitement to schism is inadmissible and is strictly condemned in accordance with the Statute of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church—Bulgarian Patriarchate and the sacred canons. On the contrary, the Holy Church prays for the repentance, communion, and unity of all its children in the one Body of Christ.

We call upon the clergy and the Orthodox people not to succumb to provocations that breed enmity and division. During the coming days of the Dormition Fast, let us exercise prudence and intensify our prayers to God and to the Mother of God for mercy and gracious help for all of us, for our entire people, and for the world, which is burdened by numerous conflicts, wars, and suffering—and for peace, repentance, and salvation.

https://bg-patriarshia.bg/news/pozitsiya-na-svetia-sinod-otnosno-oskarbitelni-izyavlenia-i
Original post