Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel has banned the clergy from participating in the presidential election

Patriarch Daniel, Primate of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, issued an official directive prohibiting clergy from participating in the Bulgarian presidential election as candidates. A circular letter to that effect was sent to the clergy of the Diocese of Sofia ahead of the election scheduled for October 25, 2026.

In his address, the Patriarch emphasized the need for strict observance of church discipline and canonical norms. He cited the 6th and 81st Apostolic Canons, as well as the 10th canon of the Seventh Ecumenical Council. In addition, the head of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church recalled the provisions of the Church’s Statute, which explicitly prohibit clergy and monastics from holding government offices, participating in party activities, or running for elected office.

The document also specifies the rules governing clergy interaction with political entities. According to the directive, prayer services or water blessings requested by political parties and civic organizations are permitted exclusively within the walls of Orthodox churches. Furthermore, sermons delivered by priests following such services must be strictly spiritual in nature and avoid political bias. Concluding his address, Patriarch Daniel called on clergy to focus on their prayerful ministry for the sake of peace in Bulgarian society and throughout the world.