He studied at the Holy Theological School of Jerusalem, where he graduated with honors. In 1873 he was ordained deacon. He soon distinguished himself for his merits, became Archimandrite and assumed the duties of the Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. In 1882 he was elected Patriarch of Jerusalem at the age of 29, but after an appeal by other priests his election was annulled and he retired to the Holy Monastery of Sinaeus in bitterness. In 1891 he returned to Jerusalem and Patriarch Gerasimos appointed him Arch-secretary and President of the Finance Committee. In 1897 he was consecrated Archbishop of Philadelphia and then Bishop of Nazareth. His personality, morals, education and rhetorical dynamism were impressive. The Emperor of Germany decorated him during his visit to the Holy Land.

In 1899 Photios was unanimously elected Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria. The work he did was great, mentioning the founding and covering of areas of Egypt with new churches and Metropolises. The creation of a Patriarchal printing house, schools of education (Zerboudakio School, Salvage Trade School), with cultural associations (Ptolemy etc.) He also published ecclesiastical and scientific journals (Pantheon and Ecclesiastical Pharos).

During his Patriarchate, he was distinguished for his patriotic feelings, while he supported the Macedonian Struggle in every way. As a great ecclesiastical leader, Photios represented Orthodoxy at world celebrations and conferences. Unfortunately and unexpectedly he headed for the Eternal East on his return to Alexandria from a visit to Sweden. All Hellenism wept for him and honored him with a three-day pilgrimage.

The Greek State honoured him with the Order of the Royal Order of the Saviour.