“Each of us has probably already formed an opinion about whom to vote for. We do not know the date of the enlarged council; most likely, the date will also be determined today,” said Bishop Saba Intskirveli of North America before the start of the Holy Synod session.

According to Bishop Saba, it is possible that the issue of enthronement will also be decided today.

“Today is a historic day. There is great expectation and great interest. This is not surprising, as you know, this is a secret ballot procedure, so we cannot name the candidate we are voting for. Most likely, each of us has already decided whom to support. By God’s grace, three candidates will be named today, and then the Patriarch will be elected at the enlarged council. We do not know the date of the enlarged council; it will probably be decided today. It is also possible that the issue of enthronement will be decided today,” Bishop Saba noted.

Responding to a question about the Metropolitan of Chiatura and Sachkhere, Bishop Daniel Datuashvili, and his age, Bishop Saba said: “Personally, I believe that Bishop Daniel has the right to participate in the vote.”

For reference, the Holy Synod of the Georgian Orthodox Church will select three patriarchal candidates today. The Synod session at the Patriarchate of Georgia is scheduled to begin on April 28 at 12:00.

The issue of electing a Patriarch arose after the passing of Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, on March 17. Ilia II was buried on March 22 at the Sioni Patriarchal Cathedral.