Toronto ON Saints Cyril and Methody Macedono-Bulgarian Cathedral 1910

Toronto, Ontario, Saints Cyril and Methody Macedono-Bulgarian Orthodox Cathedral, 1910, 1948

Cyril may be spelt Kyril, Kyrill, Kiril, Kyrillos.

Methody may be spelt Mefody, Methodios, Methodius.

Hieromonk may be spelt Hieromonak, Hiéromoine, Priest-monk.

Many family names ending with -ov or -ev may be spelt also as -off or eff.

Prehistory

During the early years of the 20th century, immigration to Canada began from what is now Bulgaria and Macedonia (at that time, part of the Ottoman Empire). The majority of the new-comers settled in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

This emigration from the northern Balkan lands was instigated largely as a consequence of the unsuccessful Illinden Insurrection of 1903, and the Balkan Wars (1912-1913). However, the Orthodox Christians of this region had suffered already for several hundred years because of the anti-Christian pressure that was in the foundation of the Islamic Ottoman Empire. Many had no choice but to leave their homes. Those who arrived in Canada had left from Kostursko (Kastoria), Lerinsko (Florina), Kalyarsko, and other regions (some of which are now in northern Greece).

Soon, Faithful Orthodox Christians took upon themselves to organise a parish community, and a Temple, around which to unite the people, and to maintain their Eastern Orthodox Christian Faith, language, culture and traditions, and also to uphold their national identity.

At the end of August, 1910, there was an assembly of 200 persons. The main speaker, Hieromonk Theophilact (Mallin), initiated a campaign to collect funds to build a place of worship. Father Theophilact was present in North America as a missionary priest. In the Church of Bulgaria, this was during the period of the Bulgarian Exarchate, and Archbishop Joseph (Yovchev) was the Exarch of Bulgaria (1877-1915) under the Patriarchate of Constantinople.

Exarch Archbishop Joseph (Yovchev) of Bulgaria

Establishing the parish, 1910

On 28 September, 1910, there was a general meeting of the parishioners. It was reported that already, sufficient funds had been collected to provide for the establishment of a place of worship for the community. The assembly accepted the detailed report about the collected funds, and about the number of immigrants at that time. A decision was made to purchase land or a building for a place of worship, which was named after the brothers, Saints Cyril and Methody, who were from Thessalonika (at that time within the Eastern Roman Empire, now in Greece).

On 1 October, 1910, a committee for collecting funds and counting the Macedono-Bulgarian countrymen reported that in Toronto there were 1094 immigrants from the following regions :

 Bitolsko, Macedonia – 42
 Bulgaria – 38
 Demir-Hisarsko, Macedonia – 15
 Kalyarsko, Macedonia – 32
 Kostursko, Macedonia – 514
 Lerinsko, Macedonia – 332
 Prespansko-Ochridsko, Macedonia – 121

First Temple, 1910

A suitable building was found to be available on Trinity (Front) Street and Eastern Avenue.

On 29 November, 1910, after negotiations, it was purchased for $5,000.00. The ground floor was converted into a church, and the second floor into a large room in which there could be held public meetings and a school could meet. The annual membership fee was $3.00.

In January, 1911, there was a meeting to elect a regular parish committee. Hieromonk Theophilact (Mallin) was asked to remain as a regular parish priest in Toronto, to which he consented. He also received the blessing to do so. The blessing at that time was given by Archbishop Platon (Rozhdestvensky), the archbishop of the North American Diocese of New York and the Aleutians (also known as the “Russian Mission in North America”) of the Church of Russia.

Those who signed the first protocol of the parish in 1911 :

 Archimandrite Theophilact, Kuzo Temelkoff, Hadji Dimitar Peroff, Simo Velyanoff, Zografoff, 
 Apostol Kalavazoff , George Arsoff, Hristo Krastoff, Tome Vuchkoff, Grigor Stoyanoff, 
 Stavro Nicoloff, Lak Makrieff, Stato Traikoff, Done Panjaroff, Nicola Velkoff, Dimitar Hadjieff, 
 Mitse Michailoff, Nikola Pop Lazaroff, Dine Nanchoff, Krusto Mladenoff, Stavro Zolumoff, 
 Kiro Naumoff, Nikola Ilieff, Konstantin Stanchoff, Georgi Evanoff, Anastas Stoycheff, 
 Georgi Dineff, Hristo Kiroff, Stoyan Stefoff, Kuzo Dimitrieff, Risto Peroff, Kole Stoycheff, 
 Dine Petre, Pando Trendafiloff, Sotir Georgi, Georgi Yovan, Elo Sotiroff, Tanas Hadji Georgieff, 
 Evan Hristoff, Nikola Yovan, Bogoya Christoff, Apostol Georgieff, Pando Delov, Dine Petroff, 
 Dimitar Hadji Pavloff

Signatures of the founders

Sanctification of the Temple, 1911

On 24 May, 1911, the Temple was sanctified by Archbishop Platon (Rozhedestvensky) (the bishop of the Russian Mission), who lived in New York, along with Hieromonk Theophilact.

Sanctification of the Temple

In 1914, the Bulgarian language school was established by a cultural-educational society named “Prosveta”. Its first teacher was Mr. Kuzo Temelkoff from the village of Teolishta, Kostursko. It was intended to teach the Bulgarian language to Bulgarian and Macedonian children.

In 1915, the parish received a visit from the Bulgarian Consul at the Bulgarian Embassy in Washington, DC. At that time, there was no political representative from Bulgaria to the Canadian government in Ottawa, Ontario (although there was one in London, England).

Visit of the Bulgarian Consul

In 1916, the neighbouring house, adjacent to the Temple, was purchased for $4,200.00. It was to be used for living quarters for the priest and for executive meetings.

In 1917, the Society “Balkanski Unak” formed a Bulgarian school for adults. The society organised and produced literary and musical events, entertainments and cultural and educational happenings in the parish.

On 31 March, 1918, Archimandrite Theophilact (Mallin) was proclaimed to be the honourary president for his lifetime.

Archimandrite Theophilact (Mallin)

Temporary refuge for Christ the Saviour Russian Orthodox Church, 1918-1921

From 1918 until 1921, former parishioners of the Russian-speaking Christ the Saviour parish came to worship in this Temple when their parish disintegrated after the Bolshevik Revolution and the subsequent controversies that arose from it and from World War I. It is stated in their history records that they were grateful for this refuge during their difficult years. It is likely that some of the parishioners had attended services in this parish before the formation of the Russian parish in 1915.

In 1921, Archimandrite Theophilact discontinued his services as parish priest, and he commenced practicing medicine. He continued from then on to serve only as a physician. To the end of his earthly life, he was one of the main counsellors and initiators of parish activities. The Macedonians and Bulgarians of Toronto have continued to remember Dr. Mallin with respect.

Dr. T Mallin, MD

Archpriest David Nakoff, 1921

In 1921, Archimandrite Theophilact was followed by the Archpriest David Nakoff, who was assigned to serve the parish until he was transferred in 1923.

Archpriest David Nakoff

Archpriest Krestu (Krasto) Tsenoff, 1922-1937

From 1922, after the resignation of Archimandrite Theophilact, the Holy Synod of the Church of Bulgaria gave Archpriest Dr. Krestu (Krasto) Tsenoff the responsibility of organising and leading the Bulgarian parishes in North America. From his parish in Pennsylvania, USA, he led this developing group until his repose in Christ.

Archpriest Velik Karadjoff, 1923

In 1923, Archpriest Velik Karadjoff was assigned to serve the parish until he was transferred in 1925.

Archpriest Velik Karadjoff

This was the period during which the original unity (for the most part) of the Orthodox Church in North America was broken, as a consequence of the Bolshevik Revolution and World War I. It was during this period that the Bulgarian Patriarchate was beginning to establish a distinct presence in North America. Nevertheless, there was no bishop resident and responsible in North America, and the parish had to communicate directly with the patriarch.

In May, 1925, Metropolitan Platon (Rozhdestvensky), head of the Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church in North America, made an archpastoral visit to the parish. On the Altar Feast-Day of the parish, he celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy with the parishioners.

Metropolitan Platon and parishioners

After the transfer of Father Velik Karadjoff, there followed a period of 2 years without the assignment of a permanent pastor.

Move to the Bulgarian Patriarchate, 1926

On 2 February, 1926, the parish council assigned a committee to study the question of constructing a parish hall with a stage.

From 10 to 24 October, 1926, the committee met. The members of the committee were : Dr. D Mallin, Dimitar Hadjieff, Naum Phillips and Simo Velianoff. The committee drafted permanent by-laws which were reported to and accepted by the members of the parish council (church committee). They came into effect upon the blessing of the Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

Archpriest Sotir Nicoloff, 1927

In 1927, Archpriest Sotir Nicoloff was assigned to serve the parish until he was transferred in 1931.

Archpriest Sotir Nicoloff

Establishment of the choir, 1927

In 1927, the first church choir was established. It had more than 30 members, and the director was Benio Beneff. Until this time, the responses and hymns of the services had been sung by cantors.

Opening the parish hall, 1928

In 1928, the new parish hall was opened officially. The first drama to be performed was “Makedonska Kervava Svadba” (“Macedonian Bloody Wedding”) by Voydan Pop Georgiev Kuzmanov, who was also known by the family name "Chernodrinski".

Archpriest Haralampi Elieff, 1931

In 1931, Archpriest Haralampi Elieff was assigned to serve the parish until he was transferred in 1937.

Archpriest Haralampi Elieff

25th anniversary, 1935

In May, 1935, on the Altar Feast-day of the parish, the parishioners marked the first 25 years of service and Orthodox Christian witness in Toronto.

25th Anniversary

Archpriest Vasil Michailoff, 1938

In 1938, the Archpriest Vasil Michailoff was assigned to serve the parish until he was transferred in 1940.

Archpriest Vasil Michailoff

Archpriest Haralampi Elieff, 1941

In 1941, the Archpriest Haralampi Elieff was assigned again to serve the parish, which he led for more than 2 decades, until 1964.

Archpriest Haralampi Elieff

Constructing a new Temple, 1944-1949

In April, 1944, following a period of deliberation, property on the corner of Sackville and Dundas Streets was purchased in order to build a new Temple.

On 25 January, 1948, a decision was made to buy the adjoining 8 houses on Sackville Street, in order that sufficient land for the building of a church hall be available.

On 12 March, 1948, an agreement was signed between the parish council and the contractor, the Acroyd Construction Company, who would build the new Temple.

On 11 April, 1948, Father Haralampi Elieff offered the “Moleben Service” and “Blessing of the Water” at the construction site, and the president of the church committee, Dimitar Kostoff, “turned the sod” for the new Temple. The whole site was blessed with the newly-blessed water.

Corner-stone blessed and set by Metropolitan Andrey (Petkov), 1948

On 24 May, 1948, Metropolitan Andrey (Petkov) (Metropolitan of the Bulgarian Eparchy of the USA, Canada and Australia), and Father Elieff offered the “Moleben Service” and “Blessing of the Water”. After the corner-stone was blessed, it was laid in place by Metropolitan Andrey and the mayor of Toronto, Hiram E McCallum.

Laying the corner-stone, 1948

Repose of Dr. Mallin, 1949

On 31 April, 1949, Dr. Mallin fell asleep in the Lord. The prayer "Eternal Memory" continued thereafter to be offered for the first priest, honourary president, and founder of the parish.

Dr. Mallin

Sanctification of the Temple, 1949

On 19 June, 1949, Metropolitan Andrey (Petkov) and the Archpriest Haralampi Elieff led the services of the sanctification of the new Temple.

Parish hall, 1953-1954

In April, 1953, the beginning of the construction of the new parish hall was marked by the “turning of the sod” by the hundred-year-old Spiro Tomev.

Turning of the sod for the parish hall, 1954

On 14 November, 1954, the new parish hall was blessed by Metropolitan Andrey (Petkov), together with Archpriest Haralampi Elieff, the Hieromonk Kiril (Yonchev) and the Priest Jordan Dimoff.

Archpriest Jordan Dimoff, 1956

In 1956, Archpriest Jordan Dimoff was assigned to serve the parish along with Father Elieff, which he did until he was transferred in 1963.

Archpriest Jordan Dimoff

Archpastoral visitation, 1957

In May, 1957, Metropolitan Andrey (Petkov) made an archpastoral visitation to the cathedral parish on the occasion of the annual Altar Feast-day of the Holy Equals-to-the-Apostles Cyril and Methodius (11/24 May).

Archpastoral visitation, 1957

Retiring the mortgage, 1958

At the end of 1958, a decision was taken to pay off the mortgage, in the sum of $38,000.

50 years, 1960

In 1960, the parish celebrated the 50th anniversary of its founding.

Parish Church Schools and other groups

The parish of Saints Cyril and Methody has offered 3 schools for the youth : the language school ; the Church school ; the dance school. In addition, there were the Altar boys (acolytes).

Father Jordan Dimoff was the first teacher in the Bulgarian school, and he was followed by Vasilka Trifonova. After her, several volunteers were teaching ; then Olga Salev, and Petranka Andonova (who taught for 23 years).

Mme Petranka Andonoff

In 1960, Father Jordan Dimoff (1956-1963) organised the Church school of the parish. A group of teachers taught catechism to the children during the Divine Liturgy. In 1968, Mrs Hilda Weleff prepared the children to present the play "The Prodigal Son", which was well-received. Hilda Weleff and Mary Peroff were particularly active teachers. During the following years, there were many other teachers who devoted their energies and gifts to nurturing the Orthodox Christian Faith in the children.

In 1961, the dance group was organised for the children by Olga Sandalovich, who laid the foundation for the future of the programme of formation. A series of dedicated teachers continued year after year the tradition that was established at the beginning.

In 1960, the custom was established of encouraging and preparing acolytes to serve in the Altar and to assist the priests during the Divine services. This custom has benefitted the priests, and it has nurtured and strengthened the Orthodox Christian Faith of the youths. In fact, their experience enabled them to become faithful participants in parish worship and spiritual life throughout their lives.

Further pastoral progress

In 1964, Archpriest Haralampi Elieff was transferred.

Archpriest Simeon Dimitroff, 1965

In 1965, Archpriest Simeon Dimitroff was assigned to serve the parish. He was transferred in 1973.

Archpriest Simeon Dimitroff

Three dioceses in North America, 1969

In 1969, the Holy Synod of the Church of Bulgaria divided the parishes in North America into 3 distinct dioceses : New York, New York ; Detroit, Michigan ; Akron, Ohio.

The Canadian Bulgarians were included under the Akron diocese.

Archpriest Dimiter Popov, 1974

In 1974, Archpriest Dimiter Popov was assigned to serve the parish.

Archpriest Dimiter Popov

Diocese of Akron, Toronto special status, 1975

In 1975, the Holy Synod of the Church of Bulgaria changed the organisation of the Church in North America, and established the Diocese of Akron in the USA as the only diocese. It was not convenient to include the Toronto parish in an American establishment, in part because of tax regulations.

The cathedral in Toronto was to have a special status (defined in 1977), and archpastoral visits were to be made by the Bishop of Akron.

In 1976, Bishop Simeon (Konstadinov) made an archpastoral visit to the cathedral.

1976 visit of Bishop Simeon (Kostadinov) of Akron, Ohio

l to r Priest B Drangov ; Archpriest D Popov ; Bishop Simeon (Kostadinov) ; Archimandrite Damyan ; Deacon Rumen Milanoff

Acolytes Christ Tolev ; Jimmy Glavin ; Jimmy Bogleff

New status of the parish, 1977

In the context of the development of the Bulgarian Diocese both in Australia and the USA, there appeared certain difficulties which had to be resolved (the international border and its complications being amongst them). A petition had been made previously to the Holy Synod of the Church of Bulgaria for a resolution to the various difficulties.

On 2 December, 1977, the Patriarch and Holy Synod decided formally to give to the Cathedral Parish of Saints Cyril and Methody a special status. It was transferred from the Diocese of Akron to the Patriarchate of Bulgaria, and it was made a "stavropegial" parish directly under the Patriarch and Holy Synod, with the title "Archiereisko Namestnichestvo" (Episcopal Vicar-Diocese). The rector of the parish was named "priest-vicar" of the patriarch. In addition, the Holy Synod blessed the future ordination of Deacon Rumen Milanoff (this occurred in 1982).

Archpastoral visitation by Patriarch Maxim (Minkov), 1978

In 1978, Patriarch Maxim (Minkov) made an archpastoral visitation to the various diocesan centres, institutions and parishes in the USA, and also to the Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methody in Toronto, Ontario.

In September, Patriarch Maxim, accompanied by his entourage, arrived in the USA. After their arrival, they paid visits to all the Macedono-Bulgarian parishes that were under the patriarchate in the New York and Akron dioceses. The entourage included Metropolitan Pankraty (Donchev) of Stara-Zagora ; Metropolitan Filaret (Ignatov) of Vidin ; Metropolitan Kalinik (Alexandrov) of Vratsa ; Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov) of New York ; Bishop Simeon (Kostadinov) of Akron ; Protodeacon Vasil Velyanov and Professor Tudor Sabev.

On Thursday, 5 October, 1978, Patriarch Maxim and his entourage arrived in Toronto, Ontario, for the archpastoral visitation to the Toronto cathedral. They were accommodated at the Sheraton Hotel. Their first visit was to the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Mrs. Pauline McGibbon, after which the entourage went to Niagara Falls for a visit.

On Friday, 6 October, the patriarch and his entourage visited the Minister of Labour of the Province of Ontario, Mr. Robert Elgie. After this, they visited the Mayor of Toronto, Mr. Frederick Beavis. Following these meetings, they were given a bus-tour of the city of Toronto.

On Saturday, 7 October, Patriarch Maxim and the entourage received various Macedono-Bulgarians who came to pay their respects. Then, at 5:00 p.m., the patriarch and his co-travellers arrived at Saints Cyril and Methody Cathedral for Vespers. They were received by Archpriest Dimiter Popov who presented bread and salt to them. Patriarch Maxim preached a homily at the conclusion of Vespers. Following Vespers, a formal reception with dinner was offered to the distinguished visitors at Holiday Inn. Members of the Advisory Board, the Church Committee, the Ladies’ Auxiliary, and very many parishioners participated. Besides Patriarch Maxim and his entourage, as well as parish leaders, other dignities were included at the head-table : Archbishop E Scott of the Anglican Church of Canada ; Dr. D Ray, Secretary of the United Church of Canada ; and Dr. R Elgie, Minister of Labour of Ontario. There were various speeches, and time for many people to approach the patriarch.

On Sunday, 8 October, Patriarch Maxim presided at the Patriarchal Divine Liturgy, and he was assisted by the metropolitans, bishops, priests, deacons, and others who were present. The choir was directed by Simeon Marchev. Patriarch Maxim preached the homily. Following the Divine Liturgy, all those present went "as a family" to the parish hall, where a luncheon had been prepared carefully by the Ladies’ Auxiliary. Later in the afternoon, Patriarch Maxim and his entourage were received for dinner at the home of Archpriest Dimiter Popov. Following this, there was a reception in the parish hall at which past leaders of the parish, parish council members, members of the Women’s Auxiliary, and the Youth Group were able to speak with the distinguished visitors. At this time also, various historical and administrative documents were presented to Patriarch Maxim for his information. The whole encounter was perceived as being beneficial to all concerned as an open heart-to-heart conversation. Patriarch Maxim spoke warmly about the parish and its membership.

On Monday, 9 October, a breakfast reception was offered at the hotel by the Bulgarian-Canadian Society. Again there was amicable conversation, which was followed by the escorting of the patriarchal entourage to the aeroport for their departure flight.

Patriarch Maxim (Minkov) preaching the homily

Presenting a gift to Patriarch Maxim at the luncheon

Welcome with bread and salt to the Popov home

Anniversary preparations, 1984

In 1984, the parish was in the process of preparing for the 75th anniversary. These preparations included roof repairs, other repairs, renovations and upgrading of the facilities in general. Many other practical matters were addressed with regard to the pending festivities.

It was during this year that the parish council requested that Father D Popov introduce the English language into worship services, in addition to the accustomed Church Slavonic.

Archpriest D Popov with Acolytes Christopher Simpson ; Steven Tolev ; Philip Simpson, 1984

75 years, 1985

In 1985, the parish celebrated the 75th anniversary of its founding, and a book in Bulgarian and English was published for the occasion. The book specifically mentioned with gratitude that the parish had been served continuously by beloved and well-educated priests. Similarly, the parish presidents had been able, energetic leaders.

Invitations to the the celebration were extended to Metropolitan Joseph of New York, to Vicar-bishop Joseph (Bosakov) of Akron, to all canonical Eastern Orthodox churches in the area, to the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Church in Toronto, to all the Macedono-Bulgarian parishes in the New York and Akron dioceses, and to federal, provincial, and municipal authorities.

On Sunday, 29 September, 1985, the festal anniversary Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was served by Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Joseph (Bosakov). They were assisted by Archpriest Dimiter Popov, Priest Rumen Milanoff, and all the other clergy present. Metropolitan Joseph of New York preached the homily. Following the Divine Liturgy, a "Te Deum" Service of thanksgiving was served. Following this, the clergy and others travelled to the Saint James Cemetery, where a Memorial Service for the departed founders, benefactors, and parishioners. This was served at the grave of Dr. Theophilact Mallin.

In the evening of 29 September, a celebratory banquet was served at the Prince Hotel. Besides the clergy who served, Bishop Georgije (Djokić) of the Serbian Orthodox Diocese of Canada, the Attorney General of Ontario, Ian Scott, and many others were present. The main speaker at this dinner was Bishop Joseph of Akron.

Retirement of Archpriest Dimiter Popov, 1986

In 1986, Archpriest Dimiter Popov was granted retirement in accordance with his petition in late 1985.

Archpriest Ivan Minchev, 1986

Later in 1986, Archpriest Ivan Minchev was assigned to serve the parish.

He was transferred away in 1999.

Archpriest Ivan Minchev

Archpriest Valery Shoumarov, 1999

In 1999, Archpriest Valery Shoumarov was assigned to serve the parish.

Archpriest Valery Shoumarov

Centennial celebration, 2010

On 7 November, 2010, the parish, now elevated to the dignity of a cathedral, celebrated its Centennial Jubilee. The anniversary celebrations commenced with a gala event. Over 400 people gathered in The Westin Prince Hotel Ball-Room to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the oldest Macedono-Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Parish in Canada. Amongst them were long-standing church members, descendants of the founders and past presidents, many friends and guests. Also present were the grandchildren of Dr. Mallin, Franceska and James Mallin with their families.

The cathedral at the centennial

Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov) came especially from New York to bless this remarkable event. Official guests at the ceremony were also the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria Nikolay Mladenov, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration of Canada, Jason Kenney and a Mayoral nominee of Toronto, Rob Ford, who gave speeches and official greetings to the President of the Church Committee, Emil Georgiev.

The dinner was followed by a rich musical programme with performances by the Vocal Trio “Singing Notes” ; a famous Bulgarian singer Desi Dobreva ; Macedonian Dance Group “Selyani” ; Bulgarian Dance Group “Igranka”, and the Orchestra of Macedonian Songs and Dances Association “Biser”.

On 8 November, 2010, the anniversary celebrations continued with the celebrating of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov) presided at this Divine Liturgy, and he was assisted by : Stavrofor Archpriest Professor Blagoi Chiflianov, Father Boris Drangov, Father Valeri Choumarov, Father Nikolay Georgiev, Father Velichko Mihailov and Father Bozidar from Chicago.

Concelebrants with Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov)

Some of the congregation

The Temple was not enough to accommodate all who came to take part in this holy prayer and thus become a part of this historical event of the cathedral parish.

Chants of the church choir, led by Elitza Yordanova supplemented the impact of the Divine Liturgy. The Holy Service ended with a heartfelt speech by Bishop Joseph, filled with reverence and respect for all, who founded and served this church community through the years and a wish that God continues to bless this church to last for ever.

After the service, the celebration continued in the banquet hall with a blessing by all present clergy and words of greeting by Minister Nikolay Mladenov and the President of Church Committee, Emil Georgiev. Minister Mladenov presented the church with an icon of the Virgin Mary for its centennial celebration.

Present in the hall were more than 500 people, who came to express their appreciation and respect to the oldest Macedono-Bulgarian Orthodox Parish in Canada. All were served a rich lunch and for their good spirit, the programme included performances by the Vocal Trio “Singing Notes”, with Daniela Manolova ; Folk Singing Group led by Irina Markova and Bulgarian Dance Group “Igranka”.

The Celebration ended with a lot of dances, and it will certainly be long-remembered by all, who attended.

Parish dance group

In 2013, the Archpriest Valery Shoumarov was transferred and the Archpriest Vesselin Arnaudov was assigned to serve the parish.

Archpastoral visitation, 2017

On Saturday, 14 October, 2017, Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov) visited at the cathedral in an informal manner, and he served the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of Saint Petka. He then returned to serve Vespers and the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on 28-29 October, 2017. There followed a festive dinner and entertainment.

Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov) serving informally

Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov) serving formally

On 20 May, 2018, the cathedral parish celebrated the Feast of Saints Cyril and Methody. The Divine Liturgy was served by 2 priests, and afterwards there was a festive dinner with entertainment.

Archpriests Vesselin Arnaudov ; Boris Drangov

Some of the congregation

Entertainment at the festive dinner

Throughout all the years of its history, with the invaluable help of the founders, clergy, committee members, donors and parishioners, the community has upheld the traditions of the Orthodox Faith, together with the Bulgarian language and culture.

The Temple and the hall

In 2023, Archpriest Vesselin Arnaudov was transferred away.

Archpriest Ioannis Ivanov, 2023

In June, 2023, Archpriest Ioannis (John) Ivanov was assigned to serve as the pastor at Saints Cyril and Methody Cathedral.

Archpriest Ioannis Ivanov

Particular parish information

The parish is a part of the Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Diocese of the USA, Canada, and Australia. The bishop is Metropolitan Joseph (Bosakov).

This parish follows the New (Revised Julian) Calendar.

The Altar Feast-day of this parish is the Feast-day of the Equals-to-the-Apostles, Cyril and Methodius, 11/24 May.

In 2023, the pastor of the parish is Archpriest Ioannis Ivanov, the Bishop's Vicar for Canada.

Address :

Saints Cyril and Methody Macedono-Bulgarian Orthodox Cathedral

237, Sackville Street

Toronto, Ontario

M5A 3G1

Telephone : (416) 368-2828

Web-site : http://www.scmcathedral.com

E-mail : scmcathedraltoronto@hotmail.com

Facebook

Directions :

The cathedral is situated in the Regent Park district of Downtown Toronto, on Sackville Street, slightly to the north of Dundas Street East.

By car :

Dundas Street is accessible from the Don Valley Parkway, and from the Gardiner Expressway by turning north on Parliament Street. Turn right at Dundas Street, and the Temple is to the left (north) of the corner with Sackville Street (Sackville Street is a one-way street southwards).

By bus/tram/subway :

Consult the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). There is TTC street-car service along Dundas Street East.

By rail or air :

Toronto is accessible from eastern or western Canada, and from the USA by VIARail.

Toronto is accessible from most places in the world by air, and the flights arrive at the Pearson International Airport in the northwest part of the Greater Toronto Area.

Some few flights arrive at the Toronto Island Billy Bishop Airport.

Archpriest Ioannis Ivanov

Telephone : 416-368-2828

References

"History of the Macedono-Bulgarian Orthodox Cathedral 'Sts. Cyril and Methody', the 75th Anniversary Issue" (Toronto : Sts Cyril and Methody Cathedral, 1990).

History of the Bulgarian Orthodox Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methody

Parish web-site

Church Centennial Bulletin 1910-2010

Additional information :

Parish listing

Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Diocese of the USA, Canada, and Australia web-site

Orthodoxwiki article about the Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Diocese of the USA, Canada and Australia

Wikipedia article about the Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Diocese of the USA, Canada and Australia

Orthodox Church of Bulgaria web-site

Orthodoxwiki article about the Orthodox Church of Bulgaria

Wikipedia article about the Orthodox Church of Bulgaria

Exarch Joseph (Yovchev)