Metropolitan Gavriil of Lovech is in an artificial coma at the VMA hospital, where his life is at risk. According to the news agency NOVA, his condition deteriorated early this week. He has been admitted to the facility because of critical complications and severe pancreatic problems. The metropolitan is receiving artificial lung ventilation, and doctors are working to save his life. Gavriil, 76, has served as the Metropolitan of Lovech since 2001 and is one of the most respected and influential hierarchs in the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. He is known for his extensive spiritual, educational and charitable work, including the construction of the Cathedral of St. Cyril and Methodius in the center of Lovech. The metropolitan has also been a devoted participant in the annual Holy Fire ceremony in Jerusalem, attending the event three times to bring the fire to Bulgarian soil.