the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church (BOC) has taken a notable step toward electing a new Metropolitan of Vidin, following the vacancy of the diocesan see. At a recent meeting, the Synod reviewed a letter submitted by His Eminence Metropolitan Grigoriy of Vrachan, who serves as the deputy of the vacant vidin see.Based on Article 85, Paragraph 1 of the BOC statute, the synod has identified eight bishops as candidates for the upcoming election.
The list of candidates includes Bishop Sioni of Veliki, Bishop Gerasim of Melny, Bishop Vissarion of Smolensk, Bishop Michael of Constantin, Bishop Pachomius of Branitsa, Bishop Macarius of Glavinice, Bishop Isaac of Velbyzhda, and Bishop Meletius of Znepol. These bishops will now be considered for the prestigious role, which carries significant spiritual and administrative responsibilities within the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.
According to the BOC statutes, Metropolitan Grigoriy of Vrachan is tasked with distributing the list of eligible bishops to all diocesan voters via a district letter. this ensures openness and adherence to canonical procedures as the election process unfolds.
The first phase of the election will take place on February 2,2025,in Vidin,where diocesan voters will select two final candidates. The final canonical election will then be held on February 9, 2025, at the Holy Synod headquarters in Sofia. This two-step process underscores the meticulous and time-honored traditions of the BOC in selecting its leaders.
Key Dates and Candidates for the Vidin Metropolitan Election
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|——————————-|—————-|——————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Diocesan Voters’ Election | February 2,2025 | Vidin | Two final candidates will be selected by diocesan voters. |
| Canonical Election | February 9, 2025 | holy Synod, Sofia | The final election of the new Metropolitan of Vidin will take place. |
| Candidates | | | Bishop Sioni, Bishop Gerasim, Bishop Vissarion, Bishop Michael, Bishop Pachomius, Bishop Macarius, Bishop Isaac, Bishop Meletius |
This election marks a pivotal moment for the Vidin diocese, as the new metropolitan will play a crucial role in guiding the spiritual and administrative affairs of the region.The process reflects the BOC’s commitment to maintaining its canonical traditions while addressing the needs of its faithful.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our coverage of bulgarian orthodox Church news.
