Church of Georgia Synod to Discuss Patriarchal Election Rules
The Church of Georgia’s upcoming Synod may rule on candidate eligibility, potentially excluding Metr. Daniel and Metr. Isaiah from the patriarchal election.
TBILISI, GEORGIA — The Holy Synod of the Church of Georgia is scheduled to meet on Friday, April 3, at 12:00 noon, at the invitation of Metr. Shio of Senaki. The session will focus on organizational matters and preparations for the upcoming expanded Synod meetings, which are tasked with compiling the ballot list and ultimately a new Patriarch.
Sources from Orthodox Times suggest that the meeting may also examine certain articles of the Church statute, potentially affecting the eligibility of two leading candidates: Metr. Daniel of Sachkhere and Chiatura and Metr. Isaiah of Tskhinvali. Metr. Daniel, a hierarch with significant support, turns 71 on May 29—slightly above the statutory age limit of 70. Metr. Isaiah, 64, lacks a formal theology degree, though he is widely regarded as saintly and beloved by the faithful.
The Synod’s interpretation of these rules could determine which candidates are eligible, shaping the path to Georgia’s next Patriarch.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Georgian Church marked its autocephaly anniversary amid mourning for Patr. Ilia II.
