The Holy Synod of Orthodox Churches has assembled in Kolymbari near Chania in Crete, where it will begin debating. As expected, there are major security measures in place in the area. The Holy Synod is scheduled to take place between Saturday 16 June and Sunday 26 June.
During the Synod, Patriarch Irinej of Serbia proposed the invitation of the four Patriarchs of Antioch, Moscow, Bulgaria and Georgia for a common liturgy of the Pentecost. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew supported the proposal, adding that if the four Patriarchs are unable to make it in time, they could visit Crete for the All Saints celebrations.
Among the issues to be discussed at the Holy Synod is the language that will be use in the texts that will emerge. A number of senior Patriarchate delegates have argued that an archaic form of the language used must be used.
