Bulgaria celebrates St. Euthymius of Tarnovo

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In Bulgaria, the Day of Remembrance of Saint Euthymius of Tarnovo was solemnly observed on January 20th by the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. This marked the first celebration of the saint's memory following the glorification of his relics in October 2023.

Under the blessing of Patriarch Neophyte of Bulgaria, Bishop Polycarp of Belogradchik led the liturgy at the Church of the Holy Seven Youths. Following the service, Bishop Polycarp addressed the gathered citizens and guests, delivering a sermon that recounted the elevated example and spiritual feats of the last leader of the Bulgarian Church before the Ottoman conquest. The bishop congratulated the clergy, singers, and the devout people on the occasion, urging them to let the sacred words of Patriarch Euthymius always kindle a fervent love for the Holy Trinity in their hearts.

After the liturgy, the faithful participated in a procession from the cathedral to the monument of Patriarch Euthymius. A supplication for the Bulgarian people took place at the monument, and attendees laid flowers before the image of the saint. Graduates of the Sofia Theological Seminary also joined the procession.

Saint Euthymius of Tarnovo, the last and most renowned patriarch of the Second Bulgarian Empire, was a writer and scribe. In 1393, the Tarnovo Kingdom fell to the Ottoman Turks, leading to Bulgaria losing its independence for several centuries. Patriarch Euthymius was exiled and passed away in 1402 at the Bachkovo Monastery, later being canonized.

In 1905, the saint's relics were discovered during excavations at the Bachkovo Monastery, but doubts about their authenticity led to their placement in the National Church Historical and Archaeological Museum. The Bulgarian Holy Synod officially recognized the genuineness of the relics in October 2023. The remains of Saint Euthymius were then brought to Sofia for veneration, drawing thousands of pilgrims to the shrine.

This commemoration reflects the rich spiritual heritage of Bulgaria and honors the enduring legacy of Saint Euthymius of Tarnovo.

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