“I am convinced that you will continue to lead the brotherhood in the spirit of the Athos tradition, to preserve the purity of monastic life and the spiritual heritage of Zograf, as well as to maintain a lively and indissoluble connection between the monastery and our homeland“. This was stated in a congratulatory address by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov on the installation of Hieromonk Gavriil as abbot of the monastery "St. George Zograf" in Mount Athos.
The Prime Minister notes that the election of Hieromonk Gabriel as abbot of the holy monastery is a clear testimony of the monastery brotherhood's recognition of his long-standing monastic path and diligent service. “I am confident that with God's help, with the prayerful intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos - patroness of Mount Athos, under the protection of St. Martyr George and with the support of the brothers, you will fulfill this responsible ministry with humility, firmness and apostolic zeal, Rosen Zhelyazkov also points out in his congratulatory address.
The Prime Minister also emphasizes the importance of the Zograf Monastery “St. Martyr George“ - a sacred temple for prayer and trust, a school of spirituality and literature, a guardian of centuries-old traditions and a spiritual pillar for the Bulgarian people, is a place where the Bulgarian identity has been built and preserved over the centuries and the indomitable Bulgarian spirit has been maintained.