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Holy Synod Suspends Former Bishop of Paphos

Published January 8, 2026, 12:21
Holy Synod Suspends Former Bishop of Paphos

The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus has decided to indefinitely suspend former Bishop of Paphos Tychikos, pending his full acceptance of the terms set forth to him. The decision was made after a lengthy emergency meeting following Tychikos' appeal to civil courts, claiming the Metropolis of Paphos – a move considered unprecedented and contrary to Church practice. The Archbishop of Cyprus, George, had described the appeal to the courts as a "new serious development." The Synod's decision concerns Tychikos' disobedience to both the Synod's initial decision and the decision of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. At the same time, the Holy Synod is discussing changes to the Church's Statutory Charter, aiming to improve flexibility in decision-making and the administration of justice. Specifically, it is proposed that the election of Bishops and Metropolitans be made exclusively by the Holy Synod, without the participation of the laity. Finally, the Synod is also expected to examine the issue of the monks who resided in the Avvakoum Monastery, regarding allegations that they performed religious duties without the proper priestly qualification.