Sinai Monastery Plans for Succession of Abp. Damianos

SINAI — On September 12, 2025, Abp. Damianos officially resigned as Abbot of the Monastery of St. Catherine of Sinai, as announced in a heartfelt letter days earlier.

Reflecting on his 64-year tenure, he wrote, “I stand in spirit, kneeling and in tears before the sacred reliquary of my mother and nourisher, the Holy Great Martyr Catherine.”

He highlighted the Monastery’s enduring challenges, including threats to its existence and recent judicial confiscation of its property, noting its lack of legal recognition in Egypt.

Damianos called for unity around the new Abbot, pledging his support: “If the new Archbishop calls for unity, I will stand by his side with my experience, love, and support.”

He also offered forgiveness to detractors and sought it for any wrongs committed.

The Patriarchate of Jerusalem had deposed Damianos as Archbishop of Sinai on September 8, citing his announced resignation and advanced age. He will now hold the title “Former Archbishop of Sinai, Pharan, and Raitho.”

To ensure a smooth transition, the Sinaitic Brotherhood will convene an extraordinary General Assembly on September 14 at 11:00 a.m. to elect a new Abbot and Archbishop.

The election process includes appointing a chairperson and secretary, finalizing voter and candidate lists, approving agreements, and forming an electoral committee.

As the Monastery faces ongoing legal and existential threats, the assembly’s outcome will be critical for its historical continuity and future stability.

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