Bulgarian Church condemns AI advert featuring bishop's footage and voice
The Bulgarian Church stated that Metropolitan Gabriel did not endorse any medicines, but that footage of him and his voice were used in an AI-generated video.
On August 10, 2026, the Lovech Metropolis of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church issued an official refutation of an advertisement circulating on Facebook that used AI-generated footage of Metropolitan Gabriel and a voice imitation.
The diocese stated that Metropolitan Gabriel does not and has never advertised medications, medical devices, or any other goods and services in the media or on social networks.
The refutation was prompted by a video that appeared on Facebook. The diocese noted that artificial intelligence was used to alter the bishop’s voice and image and use them for advertising purposes. Metropolitan Gabriel himself had no involvement in creating the video.
"The message contained in it is completely distorted and has no relation to Orthodox spirituality or the teaching of the Church," the Lovech Metropolis emphasized.
The diocese urged users not to fall victim to such "malicious manipulation." The relevant authorities have already been notified about the distribution of the video so that measures can be taken to have it removed.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Bulgarian clergy abroad condemned the words of a cleric who served with the OCU.
