Georgian Synod to Convene for Patriarchal Election Process
Georgia’s Church faces a consequential decision after half a century of Patr. Ilia II's leadership.
TBILISI — A session of the Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church is scheduled to take place on April 28, 2026, at the Patriarchate of Georgia, UOJ-Georgia reports, citing a release from the Patriarchate.
The meeting will be chaired by Metr. Shio (Mujiri) of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, who has been serving as locum tenens since the repose of Patr. Ilia II. According to Church officials, three candidates for the patriarchal throne will be presented for consideration during the session.
Members of the Synod are expected to deliberate on the candidates and other related matters before reaching formal decisions. Further details are expected to be released following the conclusion of the meeting.
Behind the scenes, Metr. Shio is widely seen as a leading contender and is expected to be included in the list. The Orthodox Times reports that other potential candidates include Metr. Job of Ruisi and Urbnisi, who the Ecumenenical Patriarchate-aligned outlet describes as "a conservative hierarch, maintaining distance from Moscow while speaking forcefully on matters of faith."
Metr. Daniel of Sachkhere and Chiatura is also listed by the Orthodox Times as a possibility, though age restrictions may complicate his eligibility. Other names that have been floated are Metr. Theodore of Akhaltsikhe, Metr. Andrew of Gori, and Metr. Isaiah of Tskhinvali.
The Synod must elect a new Patriarch between April 25 and May 17, in accordance with Church statute.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Georgian Church outlined the process for electing a new patriarch.
