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Holy Synod Condemns Tychikos' Appeal to Civil Courts

Published January 8, 2026, 15:13
Holy Synod Condemns Tychikos' Appeal to Civil Courts

The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus condemned the appeal of former Paphos Metropolitan Tychikos to civil courts, describing it as unacceptable from an ecclesiastical point of view. The Synod examined the issue after the ratification of the decision to depose him by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The Holy Synod of Cyprus expressed its disappointment with Tychikos' refusal to comply with the terms set by the Church and his attempt to create divisions among its members. It also condemns the unrest he causes with his statements and the support he receives from a small group of believers. As a result, the Synod decided to impose the penalty of indefinite suspension on Tychikos, until he submits a specific Confession of Faith, withdraws his appeal to civil courts, condemns his excommunication from the Church, accepts new duties in the Archbishopric, and ceases to cause unrest. Meanwhile, supporters of Tychikos gathered outside the Archbishopric, holding banners expressing his innocence and condemning the Church's decision.