Our Work in Bulgaria
Since 1991, generous American Catholics have provided over $1 million for projects which were submitted to our office by the bishops of Bulgaria. These efforts have helped the Church in Bulgaria rebuild itself and begin to live and serve in freedom. The following are just a few examples of past, ongoing, and new projects sponsored through our office.
… Funded the translation of Second Vatican Council documents into Bulgarian
Under Communism the Church in Central and Eastern Europe could not undergo the reforms initiated at the Second Vatican Council. With these translations, the documents from the council can now be widely studied and integrated into the life of the Bulgarian Church.
… Contribute to construction of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lourdes
With the fall of Communism, the Bulgarian Church can freely participate in the life of the Church universal. A national shrine to Our Lady of Lourdes witnesses to the enrichment of the devotional life of the faithful in Bulgaria that is the fruit of freedom. Request submitted: $40,000
… Supported construction of pastoral center at University of Plovdiv
Forming students in the faith is crucial for the future of the Church. We are helping further this formation with our support for the pastoral center at the University of Plovdiv.
… Fund the training and formation of catechists
The Franciscan Missionary sisters of the Sacred Heart in Limassol serve the community through religious education and evangelization. We are helping with the training of future catechists, an essential part of their mission. Request submitted: $20,000
… Participate in the construction of St. Joseph’s cathedral in Sofia
We are one of many groups supporting the construction of this cathedral, a symbol of hope that builds upon and anticipates renewal in the Bulgarian church. Request submitted: $50,000
…Help build a seminary in Svihtov
The diocese of Nicopoli, founded in 1789, prepares young men to serve the Catholic faithful in this part of Bulgaria. It is in desperate need of an adequate seminary. Amount requested: $50,000.