Eugene II of Constantinople

Eugene II (also known as Evgeny II) was an Orthodox bishop who served as the Universal Patriarch in Constantinople from April 10, 1821 until his death on July 27, 1822.

Biography

Eugene II was born around 1780 in Plovdiv, which is now part of Bulgaria. His origins are a matter of debate among historians, with some sources suggesting that he had Bulgarian ancestry and others rejecting this claim. However, Dimitris Stamatopoulos, a historian who accepts Eugene's Bulgarian origins, believes that the outbreak of the Greek Revolution led the Ottoman government to reevaluate its policies towards the Orthodox Church.

Eugene II received only primary education but was known for his erudition and piety. He was elected and ordained as the Metropolitan of Pisidia in July 1814, just before the Greek Revolution of 1821.

Patriarchate

On April 10, 1821, after the arrest and execution of Patriarch Grigoi V, the Sultan called for a new patriarch to be chosen. Eugene II was selected as the successor and took office shortly thereafter.

During his tenure as patriarch, Eugene II played an important role in advising the Empire's throne, particularly during the reign of Cyril VI. He was known for his devoutness and activism, and his appointment as patriarch was seen as a way to stabilize the Orthodox Church in Constantinople.

Death

Eugene II died on July 27, 1822, at the age of approximately 42, while still serving as Patriarch of Constantinople.