On Europe Day, Metropolitan Anthony of Western and Central Europe discussed the significance of faith and the Orthodox Church in a united Europe during an interview with the Bulgarian National Radio. He expressed a message of love and peace, emphasizing the potential for unity in Europe despite modern divisions.
Metropolitan Anthony stressed that our unity should be based on “the solid foundation of Christian morality and principles.” He urged for more faith, hope, love, and attention to the needs of others.
The bishop highlighted the Bulgarian Orthodox Church’s (BOC) engagement with European institutions, which began in 2014 when the BOC joined the Committee of Representatives of Orthodox Churches to the EU. This committee, established in 2010 in Brussels, serves as the Orthodox Church’s voice in Europe, addressing social, moral, and public issues such as the Christian family and same-sex marriage. Metropolitan Anthony remarked that the committee aims to be a moral guide in society, with the BOC’s opinions respected among Orthodox churches. He noted that unified action within the committee strengthens their influence.
On May 6, St. George’s Day, Metropolitan Nikolay of Plovdiv led a Holy Liturgy in Brussels’ “St. Archangels” Cathedral, attended by Metropolitan Anthony, Bishop Joachim of Apollonia, and clergy from the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the BOC.
The service included attendees from the EU and NATO Military Commands, diplomats, public figures, and Bulgarian EU employees. An official reception later took place at NATO headquarters, attended by Metropolitan Athenagoras, Metropolitan Nikolai, and Metropolitan Anthony.
Photo: Bulgarian National Radio and website of the Bulgarian Patriarchate
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