Typos

Cyprus Church Condemns Former Bishop's Appeal to Civil Courts

Published January 8, 2026, 15:19
Cyprus Church Condemns Former Bishop's Appeal to Civil Courts

The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus thoroughly examined the case of the former Bishop of Paphos, Tychikos, and his refusal to comply with the Synod's decisions. The Synod condemned Tychikos' appeal to civil courts, deeming it unacceptable from an ecclesiastical point of view, and took note of the unrest he causes with his statements and supporters. Furthermore, the Synod noted Tychikos' attempt to create divisions among its members. As a result, the Holy Synod decided to impose the penalty of indefinite suspension on Tychikos until he submits a specific Profession of Faith, withdraws his appeal to civil courts, condemns his schism from the Church, accepts new duties in the Archbishopric, and ceases to cause disturbance. Meanwhile, a small number of Tychikos' supporters gathered outside the Archbishopric, holding banners expressing his innocence and accusing the Church of Cyprus. The Synod's decision follows the unanimous ratification of the decision to depose Tychikos by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.