The Holy Synod of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church has expressed condolences to the families of those killed in two major road accidents on the Trakia Motorway in southeastern Bulgaria, calling on clergy and faithful to intensify prayers for the victims and injured.

“We received the news of two serious road accidents that claimed human lives and plunged dozens of families into grief with deep sorrow and pain,” the Holy Synod said in a statement.

The bishops called for prayers for the repose of those who died, the speedy recovery of the injured, and comfort for their grieving relatives. The statement also stressed the responsibility of drivers, reminding motorists that human life is an invaluable gift from God that must be protected through attentiveness and consideration for others on the road.

Metropolitan Arseniy of Sliven issued a separate pastoral message, expressing condolences to the families of the victims and urging clergy and faithful throughout the Diocese of Sliven to offer special prayers for the deceased, the injured, and their loved ones.

“At times like these, we realize how fragile human life is and how short our journey on this earth can be,” the hierarch said, recalling Christ’s words from the Gospel of Matthew: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

The accidents occurred on the morning of November 10 near the village of Zimnitsa, close to the city of Yambol. Two major pileups took place on opposite carriageways amid heavy fog.

According to updated figures from Bulgaria’s Ministry of Health, a total of 86 vehicles were involved in the collisions. Eleven people were killed, while 51 injured victims were transported to hospitals in Sliven, Yambol, and Burgas. Thirteen of the injured remain in critical condition.

Patriarch Daniel of Romania also expressed solidarity with the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, sending a message of condolence to Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel. He called for prayers for the repose of the deceased, the healing of the injured, and consolation for the bereaved families.