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.
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