Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria meets Israeli Ambassador Yosef Levi Sfari

On 18 March 2025, His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria received the Ambassador of the State of Israel to the Republic of Bulgaria, Yosef Levi Sfari.

The meeting took place at the Sofia Metropolis headquarters, with the participation of His Grace Bishop Gerasim of Melnik, Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod.

During the discussion, Patriarch Daniel emphasised the important historical role of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the courage and spiritual wisdom demonstrated by Bulgarian hierarchs in saving thousands of Jews from Nazi death camps during World War II.

Ambassador Sfari expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to meet with Patriarch Daniel, thanking the Bulgarian Orthodox Church for its decisive role in the rescue of Bulgarian Jews. He also highlighted the strong spiritual ties between Bulgaria and Israel.

Both parties agreed on the significance of remembering history, especially in times of crises and challenges, to prevent past mistakes and promote peace and reconciliation worldwide. They underscored the importance of working towards overcoming global conflicts and fostering harmony and love among people.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the participants exchanged gifts as a token of mutual respect.

Source: Metropolis of Sofia / Patriarchate of Bulgaria