The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus is expected to convene again on Tuesday, May 26, to examine and approve the list of candidates for the vacant Metropolitan Throne of Paphos, with a possible election also on the agenda.
Speaking to journalists following the conclusion of the Synod’s three-day session, Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus stated that the newly approved Charter of the Church now allows the Holy Synod itself to elect Metropolitans.
“The entire Statutory Charter was approved unanimously and in a very calm and constructive dialogue,” the Archbishop said, thanking the members of the Synod for their spirit of cooperation during the discussions.
According to Archbishop Georgios, the main change introduced in the new Charter concerns the procedure for electing Metropolitans, while the remaining amendments focus mainly on updating ecclesiastical institutions and procedures.
The Holy Synod also unanimously decided to officially launch the process for the election of a new Metropolitan of Paphos. The Archbishop noted that candidates must have at least ten years of proven ecclesiastical service, be at least 35 years old, and hold a degree in Theology. The required service may include time served as a deacon, presbyter, or monk.
“The Holy Synod will meet on Tuesday, May 26. It will examine and approve the submitted list and will most likely proceed with the election as well, provided no issue arises and according to the provisions of the Charter,” he said.
Archbishop Georgios also clarified that amendments to the Statutory Charter itself still require a two-thirds majority vote.
Referring to relations with the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Archbishop stressed that the position of the Church of Cyprus remains unchanged.
“We recognize the Ecumenical Patriarch as the first among equals and have never questioned the importance and necessity of the Ecumenical Patriarchate,” he stated.
Asked whether the case of suspended Metropolitan Tychikos was discussed, Archbishop Georgios replied that the matter is considered closed by the Church, stating: “It has been concluded; he remains suspended.”
Source: sigmalive.com, translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
