site.btaZograf Monastery Is Part of Bulgaria's National Identity, Justice Minister Says

On Saturday, Justice Minister Georgi Georgiev emphasized that the Zograf Monastery is an integral part of Bulgaria's national identity during the Bulgarian state delegation's visit to the monastery in Mount Athos. The delegation, led by Georgiev, is in Zograf Monastery for the enthronement of the newly elected hegumen Gabriel. Alongside Georgiev, the delegation includes three other ministers: Georgi Tahov, Minister of Agriculture and Food, Petar Dilov, Minister of Economy and Industry, and Ivan Peshev, Minister of Youth and Sports, as well as Bulgaria’s Consul General in Thessaloniki, Greece, Anton Markov.

"Four Bulgarian ministers are here to express the relationship of the Bulgarian people, Bulgarian Orthodox Christians, and the state to the historical significance, functions, and cherished place that Zograf Monastery holds not only in our historical memory but also as part of our Bulgarian national identity," Georgiev remarked.

"Tomorrow [Sunday, May 11], in the presence of the entire Athonite community, the hegumen will be enthroned," the minister added. He highlighted that this is a highly significant event for Bulgarian spirituality.

Georgiev further noted that Father Gabriel has made outstanding contributions to the renewal of the monastic community, increasing the number of monks, and preserving, strengthening, and developing the sacred monastery.