Bulgaria Mourns Passing of Pope Francis

The death of Pope Francis on Monday at the age of 88 sparked a wave of condolences from Bulgaria's religious and political leaders. The Vatican confirmed his passing after a recent battle with double pneumonia, CE Report quotes BTA

Patriarch Daniil of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church expressed deep sympathy, calling the Pope's death a major loss for Christians worldwide. He praised Pope Francis for his resilience and expressed hope for a wise successor. Bulgaria’s largest Catholic community in Rakovski also mourned, with local priest Father Mladen Plachkov leading prayers.

The Grand Mufti honored Pope Francis’s efforts for peace and interfaith dialogue, while the Central Israeli Spiritual Council sent condolences to Bulgaria’s Catholic leaders.

President Rumen Radev praised the Pope’s dedication to unity and peace. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov described him as a “true friend of Bulgaria,” and Parliament Chair Nataliya Kiselova highlighted his impact on faith and kindness.

Leaders across the political spectrum, including Boyko Borissov, Kiril Petkov, Delyan Peevski, and Dzhevdet Chakarov, paid tribute to the Pope’s compassion, moral leadership, and message against corruption.

Pope Francis visited Bulgaria in 2019, marking a historic moment of interfaith respect and diplomatic friendship.