site.btaPresident Radev Honours Metropolitan Seraphim of Nevrokop with Presidential Badge of Honour

President Rumen Radev awarded the Presidential Badge of Honour to Metropolitan Seraphim of Nevrokop for his contribution to the consolidation of the modern spiritual foundations of the Orthodox community and the Bulgarian people, for his consistent efforts to promote and develop education, culture and charity, and on the occasion of his 50th birth anniversary. The awarding ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Presidency building.

Attending the ceremony were Vice President Iliana Iotova, Bulgarian Patriarch and Metropolitan of Sofia Daniil, the President’s wife Dessislava Radeva. 

During the ceremony, Radev said that the Bulgarian State and Orthodox Church have always had worthy spiritual leaders who have selflessly and steadfastly defended the free and independent development of the nation and the Church. The President also highlighted the contribution of the Metropolitan to the elevation of the Church's authority, the development of the Diocese of Nevrokop, the unity of the people. In his speech, Radev also noted the good relations with other religious communities. “When I have visited the diocese, it has always impressed me that the district mufti was present alongside the bishop”, the President said.

The head of the State noted the efforts of Metropolitan Seraphim to preserve and promote Bulgarian cultural and historical heritage, spiritual traditions, as exemplified by the Metropolitan’s participation in organizing the autumn festival With Music and Faith in the Heart and supporting the God is Love National Competition. The President highlighted the Metropolitan’s commitment to education and support for school principals and teachers. He wished the Bishop longevity and energy to continue defending the Christian faith, raising the authority of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and working for the welfare of the Bulgarian people.

Metropolitan Seraphim said that National Awakeners Day is coming up on November 1 and this is an occasion to remember and honour the work of all those who have encouraged spirituality and enlightenment over the years. He also said that the 130th anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of Nevrokop is to be celebrated. "This anniversary gives us the opportunity to revisit and reflect on the work of the hierarchs who headed the Diocese of Nevrokop, as well as the many clergy and laity whose contribution deserves attention and respect," Metropolitan Seraphim noted.