The latest developments surrounding the Tychikos case, as well as the issues that continue to cause tension within the Church of Cyprus, were discussed by theologian Theodoros Kyriakou, speaking on the Alpha Kalimera program.
As he noted, Tychikos had been summoned by the Holy Synod to appear before it to discuss matters concerning him, with the caveat that in the event of his absence, decisions could be made without him present.
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He, however, sent a letter to the Synod, asking, among other things, in what capacity he would be summoned to appear. Ultimately, he did not appear before the Synod, with Mr. Kyriakou noting that the Synod seeks a definitive resolution of the matter.
According to Theodoros Kyriakou, the Holy Synod decided that, as a first step, the Archbishop should meet with Tychikos to discuss the outstanding issues. Subsequently, depending on the outcome of the meeting, the case will be brought back before the Synod.
SEE ALSO: “I Felt Unbearable Pressure”: Tychikos’s Criticism of the Holy Synod and the Background to the Creation of a New Church
As he explained, once the disputes are definitively resolved, a meeting between Tychikos and the new Metropolitan of Paphos could follow.
The theologian also noted that there are issues concerning the Metropolis of Paphos, and he also spoke of behind-the-scenes maneuvers involving financial interests, which, he argued, contributed to the effort to resolve the matter through the Holy Synod.
Theodoros Kyriakou assessed that the central issue in the case remains the Synod of Kolymparion, arguing that this particular matter keeps coming back to the forefront.
As he noted, one of the matters of concern to the Church involves a letter which, according to him, was sent by five individuals to priests throughout Cyprus, not just in the Metropolis of Paphos. In the letter, he said, the recipients were asked to state whether they disagreed with the Kolymparion Synod and whether they would continue to attend services at their churches.
READ ALSO: Unbearable pressure, humiliation, and ridicule: Here is Tychikos’s letter explaining why he did not attend the Holy Synod
Mr. Kyriakou argued that such a stance could create problems for priests who expressed disagreement with the Synod’s decisions. At the same time, he referred to gatherings at a private residence in Paphos where, according to his account, the Divine Liturgy is being celebrated. He clarified that he could not confirm whether the participants were excommunicated, but he wondered why the faithful would choose to attend services in a private home when there is a church in their area.
As he noted, these developments may be linked to concerns that had been expressed regarding Tychikos’s possible involvement in such situations, a fact which, in his view, explains the need for him to be called in to provide clarification.
Theodoros Kyriakou argued that in order to resolve the matter, the issue of accepting the decisions of the Kolymvari Synod must be clarified.
As he noted, Tychikos could declare that he accepts the decisions of that Synod, thereby paving the way for his return to ecclesiastical duties.
READ ALSO: Tychikos Back in the “Spotlight”: He Asks to Meet with the Archbishop Against the “Background” of Letters Regarding the Establishment of a New Church in Paphos
In fact, he noted that he could be entrusted with responsibility for a specific area of the Holy Synod’s activities, provided that the outstanding issues are resolved.
“What cannot happen is for him to return to the Metropolis of Paphos,” he stated emphatically, making it clear that, in his view, Tychikos’s return to that particular Metropolis is not an option.
In conclusion, Mr. Kyriakou noted that Tychikos could take on other responsibilities within the Church of Cyprus, provided that the outstanding issues are first resolved.
