The Bulgarian western city of Pernik accepted Saturday a particle of the relics of St. Ivan Rilski.

The relic, placed in a special silver safekeeping case, was laid in the central Pernik church, named after the Saint, by the Abbot of the Rila Monastery, Evlogi and Bishop Yoan.

St. Ivan Rilski is honored as the heavenly patron of Bulgaria and of Pernik, often referred to as The City of Mine Workers.

To local Christians, the arrival of the relic is the most important Christian event in the history of the city and the result of 4-year-long efforts.

The procession, led by the Abbot, was met at the entrance of the city and continued to the St. Ivan Rilski church in downtown Pernik where it was received by the Pernik Mayor, former mayors, citizens, local officials, Members of the Parliament.

The event comes just two days before the official Day of Pernik and the honoring of the Saint by the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

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