Bulgarian Patriarch to Skip 98th Birthday over Illness

Bulgaria's Patriarch Maxim, who was enthroned July 4, 1971, will turn 98 on October 29. Photo by Sofia Photo Agency

Bulgarian Orthodox Church Patriarch Maxim is currently in hospital, local media have informed.

Lozenets hospital director Lyubomir Spasov has refuted initial reports that the Patriarch was in coma.

Maxim was hospitalized several weeks ago due to an overall weakness.

Medics have advised him against taking part in the celebrations marking his upcoming 98th birthday on Monday.

Patriarch Maxim was also hospitalized earlier this year.

Rumors recently emerged that he is going to withdraw from the post over his worsened health condition.

Maxim was enthroned on July 4, 1971, and will turn 98 on October 29.

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