Patriarch Daniil: Bulgaria Should Reintroduce Religious Education in Schools

Tatiana Marinova

Patriarch Daniil during a discussion on the study of virtues and religions in Bulgarian schools, Sofia, April 24, 2025 (BTA Photo/Blagoy Kirilov)

Sofia,

24.04.2025 16:36

(BTA)

The head of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Daniil, argued Thursday that Bulgaria should reintroduce religious education in schools. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church (BOC) has remained the institution with the highest public trust in contemporary Bulgarian society over the last few decades, he said during a discussion on the introduction of religion classes in Bulgarian schools. “Throughout all eras and challenges, our Orthodox Church has always been a reliable spiritual guide and pillar for our people and state,” he added.

He also said, “We believe that the Bulgarian State has both a moral and legal duty to educate children in the authentic knowledge and principles of Orthodox faith and spirituality, which have contributed so much to our people and country. It is time for Bulgaria to restore Orthodox religious education to its rightful place in schools, while considering the views of parents of other faiths or those without religion, allowing them to choose a curriculum that aligns with their values.”

"Eastern Orthodoxy is the traditional faith in Bulgaria, as stated in the Constitution, which is why the BOC is part of the constitutional identity of Bulgaria," Patriarch Daniil said.

He emphasized the long-standing connection between education and spirituality in Bulgaria, beginning with the Christianization of the country in 865 AD and continuing through the arrival of Cyril and Methodius' disciples in 886 AD. He noted that early educational institutions like the Preslav and Ohrid schools were the result of joint efforts by the state and Church for the spiritual development of the Bulgarian people. During the Ottoman period, when Bulgaria was under foreign rule, the Church played a key role in preserving literacy and national consciousness. He went on to highlighted the role of clergy during the Bulgarian National Revival and their role in the independence of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. He praised the Church's crucial role in saving Bulgarian Jews during WWII and its ongoing role in preserving moral values and social justice, especially during the atheistic regime.

Patriarch Daniil thanked the government, the Education Ministry and Minister Krassimir Valchev personally for their will and determination to make religion classes part of the mandatory curriculum in Bulgarian schools.

The roundtable discusses various perspectives on the subject and is attended by Education Minister Krasimir Valchev, Chief Mufti Mustafa Hadzhi, Members of Parliament, university rectors, professors, teachers, parents, and others. Also present are representatives of civil society, including non-governmental organizations.

/KK/