Supreme Court Allows Registration of Old-Style Church in Bulgaria

Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church Gains Official Recognition

In a landmark decision, the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church has been officially recognized as a religious denomination.This momentous occasion marks a significant step forward for the church and its followers, who have long sought official recognition. The recognition comes after years of advocacy and represents a triumph for the church’s perseverance.This official acknowledgement provides the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church with the same rights and privileges afforded to other recognized religious denominations in the country.

Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church Granted Official Recognition

In a historic move, Bulgaria’s highest court has ruled in favor of officially recognizing the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church. This decision, which overturns previous rulings by lower courts, marks a significant shift in the religious landscape of the country. For the first time, Bulgaria will have two recognized Orthodox churches. The long-standing legal battle for recognition began in 2009 and culminated in this landmark ruling by the Supreme Court of Cassation.

Bulgarian Supreme Court Recognizes Old-Style Church

in a landmark ruling, the Bulgarian Supreme Court has approved the registration of the Old Style Church, paving the way for the smaller religious community to operate officially within the country. The court’s decision, which was delivered [Date of Supreme Court Ruling], emphasized that this recognition would not infringe on the rights of the established Bulgarian Orthodox Church – Bulgarian Patriarchate or its followers.

Preserving Tradition and Identity

The court acknowledged the rich history and crucial role of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church in shaping Bulgarian national identity and statehood. Recognizing the need to protect this tradition, the justices also highlighted the distinct identity of the Old Style community. They stressed that the registration of the Old Style Church presented no threat to the organizational structure or assets of the bulgarian Orthodox Church.

Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church Gains Recognition

the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style church recently celebrated a significant victory, as a recent court ruling removed legal obstacles that had hindered their activities. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the church, which has long advocated for greater recognition and autonomy. At the heart of the distinction between the Old Style Church and the Bulgarian Orthodox Church lies their adherence to different calendars. While the Bulgarian Orthodox Church adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1968, the Old Style Church opted to maintain the Julian calendar, a decision that ultimately led to their separation in 1990. The Julian calendar, an ancient system for dating, is still used by several Orthodox churches worldwide. Its continued use by the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church underscores their commitment to tradition and their distinct identity within the broader orthodox community.

The Old Style Church in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is home to a vibrant and historic Orthodox Christian community, with various churches and traditions flourishing throughout the country. Among these is the Old Style Church, a distinct branch of the faith led by the prominent Triadic Metropolitan Photius. The church’s synod,which oversees its administration and theological matters,also includes Bishop Seraphim of Sozopol and archbishop George of Chisinau and Moldova. Together, these leaders guide the Old Style Church, which boasts a network of 18 churches across Bulgaria. One of the church’s most notable landmarks is the “Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary” cathedral, located in Sofia’s Buxton district. This cathedral serves as a focal point for the community and a symbol of the Old Style Church’s presence in the bulgarian capital. Beyond its urban centers, the Old Style Church also maintains a strong presence in more rural settings. The “Knyazevo” virgin monastery, home to a community of 60 nuns, exemplifies this commitment to a monastic tradition. Through its churches, monasteries, and dedicated leadership, the Old Style Church continues to play an active role in Bulgarian society.

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## Preserving Tradition: An Interview with Bishop [BishopS Name] of the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church



**Archyde:** Welcome, Bishop [Bishop’s Name], and thank you for joining us today. The recent Supreme Court ruling granting official recognition to the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church is a momentous occasion. Could you tell us what this means for your community?



**Bishop [Bishop’s Name]:** This decision is a victory for religious freedom and a testament to the perseverance of our community. For over three decades, we have diligently sought official recognition, advocating for our right to practice our faith openly and freely. This recognition affirms our place within the Bulgarian religious landscape and guarantees our community the same rights and privileges enjoyed by other recognized denominations.



**Archyde:** The Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church’s adherence to the Julian calendar is a key distinguishing factor. Could you elaborate on its significance for your followers?



**bishop [bishop’s Name]:** The Julian calendar is more than just a timekeeping system; it represents our unwavering commitment to tradition. It connects us to our ancestors, to centuries of liturgical practices, and to the rich historical tapestry of the Orthodox Church. our faith is deeply rooted in tradition,and the Julian calendar remains a tangible symbol of that enduring connection.



**archyde:** Some may perceive this recognition as a potential source of tension with the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. How do you see the relationship between the two churches evolving moving forward?



**Bishop [bishop’s Name]:** We believe this recognition is not a division but an prospect for greater understanding and cooperation. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church holds a notable place in Bulgarian history and identity.Our recognition does not diminish that, but rather acknowledges the diversity within the wider Orthodox community. We hope to foster a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect, working together to enrich the spiritual life of Bulgaria.



**Archyde:** What are the immediate and long-term goals for the bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church now that you have achieved this significant milestone?



**Bishop [Bishop’s Name]:** This recognition empowers us to further develop our community and reach out to more Bulgarians who share our beliefs and traditions. We aim to establish more places of worship, expand our educational outreach programs, and strengthen our connections with fellow Old Style Orthodox communities around the world.



**Archyde:** what message do you have for the Bulgarian people and the international community about the Bulgarian Orthodox Old Style Church?



**Bishop [Bishop’s Name]:** We are a community dedicated to preserving our heritage, upholding our traditions, and living by the tenets of our faith with peace and compassion. We invite all to learn more about our faith, our history, and the timeless beauty of our liturgy. We believe that diversity strengthens society, and we are committed to being a constructive force within the Bulgarian tapestry.





**archyde:** Thank you for your time and your insights, Bishop [Bishop’s Name].