Chaldean Church Holds Synod in Rome to Elect New Patriarch Following Sako Resignation

ROME — Following the March announcement by Chaldean Patriarch Mar Louis Raphael Sako of his resignation to devote himself to prayer, writing, and a simpler ministry — and its acceptance by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV — the Chaldean Catholic Church convened a decisive synod in Rome from 9 to 15 April 2026 to elect a new patriarch. Bishop Habib Hermez has been appointed patriarchal administrator until a successor is chosen.

The Church’s 16 bishops have already gathered for the synod, whose proceedings remain ongoing in Rome at a time when the Church is facing a significant internal crisis. This comes amid allegations against Bishop Mar Emmanuel Shaleta of the Diocese of San Diego, who has been accused of embezzlement and money laundering, as well as against Chaldean Archdeacon Paulus Sati, who is alleged to have possessed €171,000 in illicit funds linked to a drug trafficking network.

Among the 16 bishops, two leading candidates have emerged as contenders to succeed Patriarch Sako, who has led the Church since February 2013. The first is Archbishop of Arba’ilo (Erbil) Mar Bashar Matti Warda (56), known for his strong ties within American Catholic circles and his active public engagement through speeches and media appearances. He has consistently discouraged emigration, supporting the return of displaced persons, and empowering youth to build a sustainable future for both the Church and Iraq.

Pope Leo XIV addressing the Synod of the Chaldean Church, gathered in Rome to elect a new Patriarch of Babylon of the Chaldeans, says: “May the new Patriarch be, first and foremost, a father in faith and a sign of communion with all and among all. It might seem that living…”

The second prominent candidate is Auxiliary Bishop of Baghdad and First Vicar to Patriarch Sako Bishop Baselios Yeldo (55). Archbishop Yeldo is widely regarded as an experienced administrator with solid ecclesiastical credentials, representing continuity within the Church’s leadership.

Two scenarios could lead to the selection of a different patriarch. The first would arise if the bishops reach a deadlock between Warda and Yeldo. The second could occur if Warda declines the position, as he has reportedly indicated to close associates on several occasions.

In either case, Warda is expected to play a decisive role, potentially acting as a kingmaker by supporting a consensus candidate or endorsing another bishop if broader agreement emerges.

One such alternative is Archbishop Emil Nona, who previously led the Diocese of Mosul before being forced into exile following the Islamic State (ISIS) occupation. He later became Archbishop of the Diocese of Australia and New Zealand. Nona is viewed as a forward-looking leader with extensive pastoral experience.

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