[Kolokotronis]

“Any comments on what type of patriarch each of the three would be?”

+Kyrill is independent and not at all provincial. He is theologically sound. In my opinion, he’d be great for both intra-Orthodox relations and for relations with Rome.

+Kliment is the Kremlin’s man. He is conservative and a nationalist.

+Filaret is from Minsk in Belarus. I think he’s only there for looks but his supporters might fall to Kliment. Given the number of non-Russians voting in this synod, however, it might end up being +Kyrill. That’s the betting right now, but as with elections to the Papacy, only the Holy Spirit knows what will happen.

Comment TC?

[TexConfederate1861]

Well, Kyrill is Archbisop of Kaliningrad, and Locum Tenens, I think personally, that he would be the best choice. We need someone who is conservative, but NOT the Kremlin’s man.

[Petrosius]

Yes, I was surprised at the number of non-Russians that are participating in the synod. Does it reflect the number of Russian Orthodox outside of Russia or are they over-represented?

[Freelance Warrior]

I'd add that Kyrill is much more public figure than the both other. Non-church public in Russia doesn't know Kliment or Filaret, while Kyrill preaches every Saturday on a national TV channel.

The local ultra-conservatives despise Kyrill since they consider him too friendly with the Roman Catholics or even a crypto-catholic.

Kyrill is alleged also that he was involved in tobacco and alcohol business in the 90es to get extra money for the Church's needs. The allegation was originally made by a Moscow's tabloid "Moskovskiy Komsomolets".