Georgian Church Outlines Process for Electing New Patriarch
Photo: Public Relations Office / YouTube screenshot
TBILISI, GEORGIA — The Georgian Orthodox Church has clarified the process for electing a new patriarch following the repose of Patr. Ilia II, emphasizing adherence to established Church regulations.
According to Andria Jaghmaidze, the late Patriarch appointed Metr. Shio (Mujiri) as locum tenens to prevent uncertainty and speculation. He noted that Metr. Shio has already carried out key administrative responsibilities within the Patriarchate and represents the will of the late Patriarch.
Jaghmaidze stressed that the election of a new Catholicos-Patriarch will be conducted solely by the Holy Synod, in accordance with Church statutes, and not influenced by public or media debate. The decision will be made at an expanded Synodal session, with the new primate chosen by a majority vote of Synod members.
Church officials underscored that the process remains orderly and grounded in canonical procedure.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Georgian Church marked its autocephaly anniversary amid mourning for Patr. Ilia II.
Read also
Bp. Matthew Leads Feast Day Divine Liturgy at Manhattan Cathedral
The patronal feast of St. Nicholas Cathedral in New York featured a hierarchical liturgy, an ordination, and celebrations of parish life and service.
New Book Chronicles Life and Miracles of St. Gabriel of Georgia
A new book highlights the remarkable life and enduring spiritual legacy of St. Gabriel of Urgebadze.
Young Altar Servers Invited to Attend 2026 Diocesan Retreat
The annual ACROD Altar Boy Retreat will unite young altar servers for prayer, fellowship, and spiritual formation in Johnstown.
St. Tikhon's Monastery Pocket Psalter Officially Released
A decade-long collaboration has produced a new English Psalter designed to unite scholarly accuracy with the living tradition of Orthodox worship.
Church of Cyprus Elects New Metropolitan of Paphos
The Church of Cyprus has elected Archimandrite Gregory Ioannides as the new Metropolitan of Paphos, ending a year-long vacancy in one of the island’s most historic sees.
Abp. Alexei Joins Atka Faithful for St. Nicholas Feast Celebration
Atka’s Orthodox faithful celebrated St. Nicholas with worship, remembrance, and gratitude for a spiritual heritage that has endured across generations.