The Holy Synod has confirmed the Patriarch’s designated successor, Metropolitan Shio of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, as the successor to the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. This was stated in the Synod’s decree, which was presented to the public at a briefing at the Patriarchate by Metropolitan Theodore of Tao-Klarjeti.

According to Metropolitan Theodore, during the Synod meeting, speeches were delivered by Metropolitan Shio Mujiri, Metropolitan Anania Japaridze, and Metropolitan Theodore Chuadze.

“The Holy Synod convened for the sad occasion of the passing of His Holiness Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II. The session was opened by the Patriarchate’s designated successor, Metropolitan Shio of Senaki and Chkhorotsku. In his address, Metropolitan Shio expressed condolences to the members of the Holy Synod and recalled the many years of service of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II to the nation and the Church.

Following this, he raised the issue of Church governance until the election of the new Patriarch. Opinions were given by the senior hierarch, Metropolitan Anania Japaridze, and by the co-Patriarchal bishop of All Georgia, Metropolitan Theodore of Akhaltsikhe and Tao-Klarjeti. The fourth paragraph of Chapter Four of the Statute on the Governance of Georgia was read. The Synod approved Metropolitan Shio of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, as designated by the Patriarch, as the successor to the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia,” said Metropolitan Theodore.