Patriarch
Little is known about the life of Saint George before his election as Patriarch and his participation in the Sixth Ecumenical Council. He initially served as a presbyter and keeper of the sacred vessels at Hagia Sophia, until November or December 679, when he was appointed to the patriarchal throne. The emperor appointed him with the aim of facilitating reconciliation with the Church of Rome following the schism of 672.
Shortly after his enthronement, Patriarch George, under pressure from the emperor, convened the Sixth Ecumenical Council in Constantinople (7 November 680 – 16 September 681). Together with Patriarch Macarius I of Antioch, he was called upon to help resolve the disputes that had arisen over the teachings of Monothelitism. George and Macarius referred to the authority of the five preceding Ecumenical Councils, as well as to the authority of the Patriarchs of Constantinople. At the seventh session, on 13 February 681, their representatives were asked to respond to the letters of Pope Agatho concerning the controversy. On 7 March, during the eighth session, Patriarch George declared his agreement with the Pope.
At the sixteenth session, he asked the papal representatives not to insist on the anathema against the Patriarchs of Constantinople who had supported Monothelitism. However, the papal representatives refused to make any concessions. George was therefore compelled to yield and accept their decisions.
On 16 September 681, the Council adopted the Orthodox confession of faith and condemned Monothelitism.
Saint Patriarch George reposed in February 686.
