[kosta50]

Yes, I was surprised at the number of non-Russians that are participating in the synod

Don't forget that the Church of Japan, while autonomous, is not autokephalic (independent). It still falls under the MP.

However, the number of votes that qualified each individual are significant. +Kirill received 92 votes, Kliment (Clement) 32, and Filaret (Philaret) 16. I think the second round is more cosmetic than a question of who will be chosen, but in the world of politics and Church, anything is possible. It just looks like Kirill has the confidence of the majority.

[Petrosius]

If Metropolitan Kirill is selected by a majority of non-Russians does this have a potential of causing difficulties with his local Russian church in Moscow?