Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria and the Holy Synod issued a Christmas message to the faithful, emphasizing peace and unity, according to the Bulgarian Patriarchate’s website. The celebration of the Nativity of Christ, the message states, is a holiday of light and hope, marking the renewal of humanity through the Savior's coming into the world. It is important to note that the Bulgarian Church follows the New Julian calendar, celebrating Christmas on December 25th.

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men" (Luke 2:14). "Beloved children of our Holy Church, the wonderful message of Christ’s birth, which is experienced anew every time, reminds us of the deepest joy granted to humankind. It frees us from all that is ominous and fleeting, directing us toward the origins and deepest mysteries of being, revealed in the light of the event that forever changed and gave meaning to all of human history. It reconciles us with the heavens and once again opens the doors of the Kingdom of God to each of us — a Kingdom of light and love, peace and joy," states the Patriarchal and Synodal Christmas message.

Patriarch Daniel congratulated all Orthodox Christians on the feast, wishing them peace, light, and joy. He concluded his message with a blessing, calling on all the faithful to strive toward the light, joy, and peace that the Savior brought to the world. "God is in her; she shall not be moved," the Patriarch reminded, expressing hope for a blessed future for the Orthodox Church and all its children.

The importance of preserving the unity of Orthodox Churches was also highlighted by Russia’s Ambassador to Bulgaria, Eleonora Mitrofanova, in an interview with TASS. She emphasized that despite external pressures, the Bulgarian and Russian Orthodox Churches are working together to strengthen their bonds.

"The passing year has been sorrowful due to the death of Patriarch Neofit, but the election of the new head of the Bulgarian Church, Patriarch Daniel, gives hope for preserving Orthodox unity," said the diplomat. Mitrofanova expressed confidence that the centuries-old wisdom of the Orthodox tradition would help overcome the current challenges and maintain the spirit of mutual agreement.