The Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church has begun to form a list of candidates for the patriarchal throne

Georgia has begun the historic process of electing a new Catholicos-Patriarch following the death of Ilia II on March 17. The Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church (GOC) gathered in Tbilisi to determine the «triprosopon» — a list of three main candidates who will take part in the final election of the head of the church.

According to Orthodox Times, the Synod meeting began today at noon local time. According to the current statute, a new primate must be elected between April 25 and May 17. Applicants for the highest church post must be ethnic Georgians between the ages of 40 and 70, have a higher theological education, have experience in church administration, and hold a monastic tonsure. Head of the public relations service of the SOC Andria Jagmaidze emphasized that the Synod is strictly guided by the rules, and the final session will be held no later than May 17.

Among the key contenders for the throne stands out Metropolitan Shio, the current abbot. According to sources, he enjoys the support of the country’s government and was chosen by Elijah II himself as his successor, but his candidacy is causing controversy due to past disagreements with part of the hierarchy. Metropolitan Job, known for his conservative stance and distance from Moscow, is also mentioned among the favorites. Other possible candidates are Metropolitan Daniel, whose nomination may be restricted by an age limit, as well as Metropolitans Theodore and Andrew.

The election of a new Patriarch is critical for the preservation of unity and stability in Georgia. The final decision will determine not only the spiritual leadership in the country, but also the future role of the Church in society for many years to come. At the moment, the situation within the hierarchy remains delicate, and public interest in the election process remains extremely high.