History offers several possible solutions to this problem - which is actually not very important. One method is to retain "both" Patriarchs, who would reign in collateral dignity, commemorating each other; when one falls asleep in the Lord the united Synod elects his successor. Another is for both Patriarchs to resign immediately after calling a united Synod, which would elect whomever the Fathers of the Synod choose to elect but with the understanding that they will not elect either of the two Patriarchs who have just resigned (this is what happened at the Council of Constance). In this case likewise the two resigned Patriarchs would retain their dignity, but take good care not to become any sort of centers of dissent or opposition.
With good will, such problems can be solved when the time comes.
Fr. Serge
