Russian Holy Synod discusses Episcopal appointments and canonizations

The Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church convened for its regular session on July 16, 2026, at the Patriarchal and Synodal Residence in Moscow’s Danilov Monastery under the chairmanship of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow.

During the meeting, Patriarch Kirill presented a report on his recent primatial visits to dioceses of the Russian Orthodox Church within the Russian Federation and to the Republic of Belarus.

The Holy Synod also began deliberations concerning the election of new metropolitans and bishops, as well as the canonization of local saints of the Church in Russia.

A report was delivered by Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations, on his recent visits to Jordan, Italy, Egypt, and Ethiopia. Metropolitan Anthony also briefed the Synod on matters relating to the Russian Orthodox Church’s dioceses and parishes abroad.

The Synod further considered a report by Metropolitan Gregory of Voskresensk, Chancellor of the Moscow Patriarchate and Chairman of the Commission for the Assignment of Graduates of Theological Schools. His presentation focused on proposed amendments to the procedures governing the placement of…