On August 3, Metropolitan Cyprian of Stara Zagora conducted a solemn liturgy at the submerged Church of Saint John of Rila near the Zhrebchevo Dam. The press office of the Stara Zagora Diocese of the Bulgarian Church reported this unique and poignant event.

The Church of Saint John of Rila was originally built in 1891 in the village of Zapalnya. However, the construction of the Zhrebchevo Dam led to its destruction in 1965. The last liturgy in the church was held on April 28, 1963, after which it was closed and subsequently submerged along with three nearby villages. Each spring, the church is engulfed by water, making it accessible only by boat.

In 2019, Metropolitan Cyprian initiated the revival of liturgies at the submerged church. This sparked efforts by the residents of the displaced villages to restore the church. Today, the church’s facade is fully reinforced, a concrete floor overlaid with stone has been laid, and a cross and window frames have been installed. The preservation of the Zhrebchevo Church has attracted the support of prominent TV hosts, actors, and numerous benefactors.