Last weekend, on the 23rd March, Bob Hall was relicensed as Reader by Archdeacon Leslie Nathaniel, to continue the remarkable ministry he has been faithfully engaged with for several years. Bob will work closely with Revd Dr Nevsky Everett, Chaplain in Bucharest, as they develop the life of the chaplaincy through their mission and ministry. While they were in Sofia, Archdeacon Leslie and Fr Nevsky were also able to meet with Patriarch Daniil of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, Bishop Petko Valov of the Greek-Catholic Church, and His Excellency the British Ambassador.

Pictured above: Father Nevsky, Bob Hall, His Excellency the British Ambassador to Bulgaria, Nathaniel Copsey and Archdeacon Leslie  

During the service, Father Nevsky and the Church of the Resurrection in Bucharest also presented a beautiful symbolic gift to Bob and the Anglican Church in Sofia - a large Bulgarian Bible, originally gifted to Archbishop Robert Runcie in 1982, which has been in the care of the church in Bucharest until now. 

Fr Nevksy writes: 
“Bob's licensing was a beautiful occasion, full of music, joy and fellowship. Sofia is a wonderful city, and the community will gladly welcome any visitors!” 

The chaplaincy has even more reason to celebrate as Ashley Deutschmann from the Anglican church in Sofia, explains; 
 
“This relicensing coincides with our 25th anniversary year. Founded in Advent 2000, the Anglican Church in Sofia has served the English-speaking Christian community in Bulgaria for a quarter of a century. Our journey began at the British Ambassador’s Residence, and since 2007, we have worshipped at the Catholic Chapel of the Annunciation at 5 Oborishte Street in central Sofia."
 
 Bob expressed his gratitude, stating: 
“It was a pleasure to host the Venerable Dr Leslie Nathaniel and the Revd Dr Nevsky Everett here in Sofia. As the Anglican community here celebrates its 25th year in the city, the whole community is very grateful for the support and encouragement from the Diocese as we seek to continue growing God’s Kingdom here in Bulgaria.” 

Exterior of Anglican Church Sofia 

A lovely image taken shortly after the service. 

Thanks to Ashley Deutschmann for sending us these photographs and video.