The Ecumenical Patriarchate has issued an official announcement regarding the proceedings of the Holy and Sacred Synod held under the presidency of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew during its regular sessions on Tuesday, May 26, and Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
According to the announcement, the Synod convened to examine matters included on the official agenda.
During its deliberations, the Synod reviewed the canonical release letter sent by the Orthodox Church of Ukraine concerning Bishop Epiphanios of Olvia.
Following a proposal by the Ecumenical Patriarch, the Holy and Sacred Synod elected Bishop Epiphanios as Assistant Bishop to the Patriarch, granting him the title of the once-flourishing Diocese of Examilion.
The Synod also appointed Grand Hierokeryx Panaretos as Exarch of the Patriarchal Exarchate in Lithuania.
In addition, upon the proposal of the Ecumenical Patriarch, Panaretos was elected Bishop of Tamissos. According to the official announcement, his episcopal ordination is scheduled to take place on Pentecost Sunday, May 31, 2026.
Photos: Nikos Papachristou
