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Volume 4 32 |
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A–Z |  |
BRETHREN OF THE "BLACK CLERGY" OF BULGARIA
| The Greek Orthodox faith is the recognized religion of the State. Church government is vested in the Holy Synod, ecclesiastical appointments bring subject to the Government's approval. The laity take part in the election of metropolitans and parish priests. Only the "black clergy," or monks are eligible for the episcopate. Besides the stipend which the clergy receive from the Treasury, they are allowed fixed fees for exceptional religious services |
BLACK-ROBED MEMBERS OF A RELIGIOUS SISTERHOOD
| They lead hard-working, industrious lives, and several hours of the daily routine are devoted by them to teaching and tending various members of the laity. Bulgaria possesses about a dozen convents, and her few hundred nuns are regarded with considerable respect and deference. The calendar of the Greek Orthodox Church contains nearly eighty religious holidays, many of which are kept as work-suspending festivals by the community at large |