Due to the Covid-19 epidemic, Bulgarians are preparing to celebrate a different Christmas. The temples are disinfected and wearing of face mask in them is mandatory.

 In an interview for BNT, Metropolitan Anthony of Western and Central Europe warned that the epidemic should not be underestimated and called for strict compliance with all anti-epidemic measures. "The government took the right decision to keep temples open for service”, Metropolitan Anthony said further." In his view, it became clear during the Easter holidays that the “Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the laity are disciplined and have a sense of duty to their neighbor and to God."