Nobleborn Peter, Tsar of Bulgaria

Commemorated on January 30

Nobleborn Peter, Tsar of Bulgaria, was the son of the militant Bulgarian prince Simeon. Saint Peter was distinguished for his Christian piety, and he often turned to the Monk John of Ryl'sk (Comm. 18 August, 19 October), asking his prayers, spiritual guidance and advice. Nobleborn tsar Peter concluded peace with Byzantium on terms advantageous for Bulgaria. He gained recognition also from the Patriarch of Constantinople for the autonomy of the Bulgarian Church, and the affirmation of a Patriarchal cathedra-seat in Bulgaria, benefiting all the Bulgarian Church. Saint Peter aided in the successful extirpation of the Bogomil heresy in his lands. He died in the year 967, at 56 years of age.