Bulgarian Patriarch Daniil led the annual “March for the Family” through the center of Sofia on Saturday, bringing together families, church members, and supporters of traditional family values in a public demonstration of support for marriage, parenthood, and larger families.

The event, held under the auspices of the Sofia Metropolitanate, began with an evening service and prayer for Bulgarian families at the Church of St. Nedelya. Participants then marched through the capital’s central streets to the square in front of the Alexander Nevsky Memorial Cathedral, accompanied by the Guards Brass Band.

Addressing the crowd, Patriarch Daniil emphasized that the purpose of the march was not to oppose any group, but rather to promote family life and spiritual values.

“The March for the Family is not a confrontation, nor is it a protest or a counter-march,” the patriarch said. “It is a call for all people to join in God’s love.”

He noted that the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, in a statement released earlier that day, had urged state institutions to safeguard both the traditional foundations of the family and the constitutional provision defining marriage as a voluntary union between a man and a woman.

According to Patriarch Daniil, contemporary society faces significant challenges affecting family life and the upbringing of children. He said the Church would continue supporting families and encouraging responsible parenthood and moral living among believers.

The march took place on the same day as the annual Sofia Pride event, which focuses on equality and support for the LGBT+ community. The Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church had previously expressed criticism of the event, stating its disagreement with its ideology. Church representatives, however, stressed that they continue to pray for every individual and do not seek to condemn or divide society.

Families with children, representatives of civic organizations, and Orthodox faithful participated in the march. Many carried Bulgarian flags, icons, and crosses. Organizers also arranged entertainment areas for children, while stands offering Orthodox literature were set up near St. Nedelya Square.

Patriarch Daniil announced that beginning in 2027, the “March for the Family” is expected to be organized entirely under Church auspices and conducted in a different format. He added that organizers intend to avoid scheduling the event on the same date as Sofia Pride.

“Our goal is not opposition, but the inclusion of all people in spiritual life and traditional moral values,” the patriarch said.

This year marked the sixth edition of the “March for the Family.” Organizers say its primary mission is to support family life, motherhood, and larger families, while drawing attention to Bulgaria’s demographic challenges.