The Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church convened on March 20, 2025, at the Patriarchal and Synodal residence in the Danilov Monastery in Moscow, marking an important meeting under the leadership of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia. During this session, the Synod addressed various critical issues concerning the administration of several dioceses, particularly the retirement of Bishop Adrian from the Rzhev Diocese.
Bishop Adrian, officially known as Adrian Ulyanov, has served as the head of the Rzhev Diocese since its establishment in 2011. His departure marks a significant change, as the Synod expressed notable dissatisfaction over his tenure. Reports indicated that church officials were particularly troubled by Bishop Adrian’s inability to foster monastic life at the Holy Tikhon Monastery, the only eparchial monastery established in 2005. "The Synod expressed disagreement with the submitted petition for the reorganization of the Holy Tikhon Monastery in Toropets," the Patriarchia.ru reported. This sentiment reflects a broader concern regarding the management of church affairs under Bishop Adrian's leadership.
Throughout his time in the Rzhev Diocese, Bishop Adrian accomplished various projects, building around 20 churches and more than 10 chapels, and initiating a spiritual and educational center in Rzhev. However, these accomplishments seemed to have been overshadowed by a perceived lack of activity and engagement in the diocesan community as voiced by the Synod members. The Synod noted a general disappointment with "the low activity of Pre-eminent Bishop Adrian in the construction of the life of the Rzhev Diocese," contributing to their decision to retire him.
As the Synod moved forward, it appointed Metropolitan Ambrose of Tver and Kashin to supervise the Rzhev Diocese temporarily until a new bishop is appointed. This interim step highlights the ongoing restructuring within the church hierarchy to enhance management structures and address any deficiencies identified in existing dioceses.
Simultaneously, the meeting led to other notable personnel decisions. The Synod approved Metropolitan Pantelimon of Krasnoyarsk's request for retirement due to health issues, expressing gratitude for his years of service. Bishop Nikity of Kozelsk was then appointed as the new Bishop of Kozelsk, also freed from the management of the Kozelsk Diocese, ensuring a shift in leadership aimed at revitalizing church governance in that area.
The Synod also addressed the Makhachkala Diocese, determining that a new bishopric will be formed within the Chechen Republic and the Republic of Ingushetia, establishing the Grozny Diocese. This strategic move aims to enhance religious guidance and administration in an area that has undergone significant changes in recent years. The ruling archbishop of the Grozny Diocese will carry the title "Grozny and Sunzhensky," while the archbishop of Makhachkala will be titled "Makhachkalin and Derbent." Temporary management of new dioceses has also been entrusted to senior clerics to ensure continuity of leadership during this transition.
The discussions further included the pending vacancies in various cathedrals, where several new bishops were appointed to positions previously left vacant within the church. This reflects a proactive approach by the Synod to ensure effective governance throughout the church's expansive infrastructure, particularly in light of ongoing reforms.
Bishop Adrian's retirement signifies a turning point not only in his career but also within the Rzhev Diocese. Despite criticisms from the Synod, it is essential to note that many parishioners in Rzhev regard him with esteem, contrasting sharply with the official stance within higher church hierarchies. His contributions to the growth of the Diocese will likely be remembered fondly, especially as he was a pivotal figure in its establishment.
In summary, the March 20, 2025, Synod meeting culminated in a series of decisions that dramatically reshaped the leadership landscape within the Russian Orthodox Church. The changes indicate a broader effort to revitalize church operations, enhance community engagement, and promote effective leadership across the dioceses. These developments come amidst a backdrop of an evolving religious landscape, where the church seeks to connect more deeply with its congregations and adapt to contemporary challenges.
