Georgian Synod names three candidates for patriarchal throne
Candidates for the patriarchal throne of the Georgian Church. From left to right: Metropolitan Iov of Urbnisi and Ruisi, Metropolitan Shio (Mujiri), Metropolitan Grigol of Poti and Khobi. Photo: UOJ
On April 28, 2026, in Tbilisi, the Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church named three candidates for the patriarchal throne, UOJ in Georgia reports.
The meeting was held at the Georgian Patriarchate with the participation of 38 hierarchs.
Following the vote, the synod members nominated three candidates: Metropolitan Shio of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, locum tenens of the patriarchal throne; Metropolitan Grigol of Poti and Khobi; and Metropolitan Iov of Urbnisi and Ruisi.
The selected candidates will now be presented to an expanded council of the Georgian Orthodox Church, which will elect the new Patriarch of All Georgia.
According to Archpriest Andria Jagmaidze, head of the Patriarchate’s Public Relations Service, Metropolitan Shio received 20 votes, while the two other candidates received seven votes each.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Georgian Church Synod would present three candidates for the throne.
Read also
Jordan begins preparations for the 2000th anniversary of the Baptism of the Lord
The first meeting of the committee for preparations for the 2000th anniversary of the Baptism of Jesus Christ in 2030 on the Jordan River has taken place.
Nizhyn Eparchy celebrates patronal feast of Hustynia Convent
At the Hustynia Convent, Metropolitan Clement led the Divine Liturgy, concelebrated by three bishops and clergy from several UOC eparchies.
In Italy, Catholic bishops cancel funerals of two Freemasons
Catholic bishops refused to hold funeral services after the Masonic status of the deceased was revealed, citing canonical norms.
Odesa Eparchy of UOC launches hotline for victims of shelling
The eparchy said it is ready to stand by those in need of assistance due to the shelling.
Dnipropetrovsk Metropolitan consecrates new cross and dome of Dnipro church
Metropolitan Irenei performed the rite of consecration after the Divine Liturgy at St. Panteleimon’s Church in Dnipro.
UGCC head urges Ukrainians not to fear "apocalyptic scenario" in winter
Sviatoslav Shevchuk stated that talk of an inevitable economic and energy collapse in Ukraine this winter is part of an information-psychological attack on Ukrainians.