Sozomenos was the Patriarch of Phos' Temple of the Empire of Videssos, appointed to that position by Maleinos II on the death of his predecessor, Kameniates. He continued through the reign of Stylianos. Though he was ninety when he was appointed to the position, he was in the full possession of his wits. He was appointed due to his piety and determination, even though he was unwilling to take the responsibility. When Rhavas tried to curse him, he failed (he had previously succeeded in killing Kameniates). Sozomenos explained he "trusted in his god just as [Rhavas] trusted in his."