Georgian Church Selects Three Patriarchal Candidates

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TBILISI — The Georgian Orthodox Church has entered a decisive stage in its patriarchal succession following the repose of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II. The Holy Synod convened on April 28, 2026, to begin selecting candidates for the Patriarchal Throne, marking the formal transition toward the election of a new primate.

Before the session began, Metr. Shio of Senaki and Chkhorotsku — who is serving as Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne — performed a memorial service in memory of Patr. Ilia II alongside other hierarchs. The memorial prayer preceded deliberations in which members of the Synod gathered to determine the initial slate of candidates who will advance in the electoral process.

Archpriest Andria Jagmaidze told media that the session resulted in the selection of three candidates for the Patriarchate: Metr. Shio, Metr. Job of Mroveli-Urbneli, and Metr. Gregory of Poti and Khobi. He noted that the Synod’s formal decision would be announced later by the Synod Secretary, and that the final election will be conducted at an expanded Church council.

According to the vote results, Metr. Shio received 20 votes, while Metr. Job and Metr. Gregory each received seven votes. The three were chosen from a total of six nominees. Metr. Shio, who has served as locum tenens since 2017, is widely regarded as a leading candidate; Metr. Job is known for his long service in diocesan leadership and theological education; and Metr. Gregory has headed the Poti and Khobi Diocese since his consecration in 1996. The Triprosopon will now proceed to the final stage of the election, expected to take place in an expanded session of the Georgian Church by May 17.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Church of Georgia’s Synod discussed patriarchal election rules.

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