There is no end in sight to the turmoil in the Cypriot Church, despite the fact that a year and a half has already passed since Tychikos was removed from his position as Metropolitan of Paphos.
He decided not to attend the session of the Holy Synod, even going so far as to send a lengthy letter of protest, which was discussed during the Synod.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
“It examined the letter sent to it by the former Metropolitan of Paphos, Tychikos, in which the refused to appear before Her, citing various reasons.”
Georgios Christodoulou – Archimandrite/Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod
In the preceding letter, Tychikos himself had asked the Holy Synod to clarify that he was not being summoned to the session as a defendant, as had been the case —according to him—on previous occasions.
“Allow me to state with the deepest sorrow that the pressure I endured during my last appearance before the Holy Synod was unbearable. Furthermore, the behavior directed toward me was experienced by me as humiliating, and at times even derisive, toward a Bishop.”
Tychikos – Bishop on Leave / Former Metropolitan of Paphos
READ ALSO: Tychikos Back in the “Spotlight”: Asks to Meet with the Archbishop Against the “Background” of Letters Regarding the Establishment of a New Church in Paphos
It is worth noting, however, that Tychikos has agreed to meet in the near future with both Archbishop George and Metropolitan Gregory of Paphos.
“The Holy Synod expects that, following his meeting with His Beatitude, to be presented before it and, subsequently, to hold a private meeting with Metropolitan Gregory of Paphos.”
Georgios Christodoulou – Archimandrite/Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod
What remains to be done is for Tychikos to sign the statement of faith and provide explanations regarding his ecclesiastical activities over the past few months.
A New… Church
What is currently of concern to the Cypriot Church is whether Tychikos has any connection to a group of schismatics who sent a letter to priests in Paphos, asking them to endorse the process of establishing a new Church in Cyprus, which would oppose the Holy Synod.
At first glance—and according to ecclesiastical circles—Tychikos does not appear to have any connection to this effort; however, the Archdiocese confirms the general information regarding this matter.
“There is information, of course; at some point, this issue will be addressed by the Church.”
Georgios Christodoulou – Archimandrite/Chief Secretary of the Holy Synod
In fact, according to the same report, unauthorized divine liturgies are also being held at a specific residence in Paphos.
This is something the Church of Cyprus is already investigating so that it can handle the matter appropriately should it be confirmed.
Watch Giorgos Chrysanthos’s report:
