“All three presented candidates are loyal to the Church and the country,” Metropolitan Andria (Gvazava) of Gori and Ateni told journalists at the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba Cathedral), where the expanded assembly of the Orthodox Church will be held today.

According to him, today is an epoch-making event in the life of both the Church and society.

“Today we are electing the Catholicos-Patriarch. There are three candidates, and all three are potential Patriarchs. The session and its results will determine the outcome. All three presented candidates are loyal to the Church and the country,” Bishop Andria noted.

When asked whether it was possible that any candidate might withdraw their candidacy, Bishop Andria Gvazava said: “I do not think anyone will withdraw themselves.”

Regarding questions about possible interference in the election process, Bishop Andria stated that no one had approached him.

“This question makes me smile. I think when interference happens, it concerns everyone. For example, you and I may talk and share opinions — I may like one candidate, while you prefer another. So how should that be interpreted? Is that interference?! No one has spoken to me,” Bishop Andria Gvazava said.

For reference, the Georgian Orthodox Church will elect the 142nd Patriarch of Georgia today during the expanded assembly at the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba Cathedral).

By decision of the Holy Synod, the candidates for the Patriarchate are:

• Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne and Metropolitan of Senaki and Chkhorotsku, Shio (Mujiri);
• Metropolitan Iobi of the Urbnisi and Ruisi Diocese;
• Metropolitan Grigoli of Poti and Khobi.

Around 1,200 delegates are expected to attend the expanded assembly at which the new Patriarch will be elected.

According to the Patriarchate, attendance inside Sameba Cathedral will only be permitted through special invitation lists. Entry to the cathedral will begin at 10:00. On the day of the Patriarchal election, anyone wishing to attend may enter the courtyard of the cathedral complex, while restrictions apply only to the cathedral building itself.