|
|
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
|
|