Sinai Monastery Elects Archimandrite Symeon as New Abbot

OCP News Service – 15/09/2025

Cairo – Egypt: Archimandrite Symeon Papadopoulos has been elected the new abbot and archbishop of the Holy Monastery of Sinai, bringing an end to a period of internal crisis. His election by the Sinai Brotherhood, with 19 out of 20 votes, marks the succession of Archbishop Damianos, who formally resigned on September 12 after 52 years of service.

The election, held during a General Assembly on September 14, was a moment of unity, with both sides of the Brotherhood supporting Archimandrite Symeon’s candidacy without any challenges. This result is seen as a crucial step toward restoring peace and harmony within the historic monastery.

Until his election, Archimandrite Symeon served at the Sinai Monastery’s dependency in Alepochori, Greece. He is also a scholar, having studied both philology and theology.

The Holy Monastery and Archdiocese of Sinai issued a statement confirming the election, saying, “the Holy Sinai Brotherhood elected as its Father and Abbot… one of its brothers, Archimandrite Symeon (Papadopoulos).”

The election’s outcome now awaits communication to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem for the formal consecration of the new abbot. Additionally, securing official recognition and Egyptian citizenship for Archimandrite Symeon from the Egyptian state is considered another significant step for the monastery’s future operations.

Source:

OCP News Service