The monk Eustratios Garidas, having gained a reputation for virtue by living near Hagia Sophia, frequently visited Anna Dalassena, flattering her (she was always well-disposed towards monks), so that she wished to make him patriarch. She suggested that Kosmas I, the current incumbent, would be happier if he were to step down. Kosmas himself disagreed with the way public affairs were managed by Alexios I, but gave up on trying to change the situation. However he swore to crown Eirene Doukaina before retirement: Eirene was crowned seven days after the succession of Alexios I, and known as "despoina" in accordance with Alexios' wishes. On May 8, he celebrated the festival of St Ioannes Theologos at the Hebdomon. Then he said to his servant "Pick up the psalter and follow me", and left the church. Though many times entreated by the rulers to return, he did not, having shepherded the faithful people for five years and nine months. Eustratios Garidas was elected in his place