Former Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos departed on Monday for the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople, where he is scheduled to appear for a hearing regarding his appeal against the decision of the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus that removed him from office.
According to close associates, Metropolitan Tychikos first traveled to Athens, accompanied by Professor Panagiotis Lazaratos, a constitutional law scholar at the University of Athens, who will represent him before the Patriarchate. The former hierarch is expected to depart for Istanbul on Wednesday, while Professor Lazaratos will arrive at the Phanar on Thursday.
As Professor Lazaratos confirmed, the hearing is set for Friday at 11:30 a.m. The Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate is scheduled to convene on October 16–18.
While the exact procedural framework for the case remains unclear, Lazaratos noted that the Patriarchate is expected to grant an in-person hearing to both the former Metropolitan and himself — a first in the Patriarchate’s history, as similar matters have traditionally been handled in writing.
“We approach this process in a spirit of ecclesial reconciliation and repentance, while also defending the just positions of His Eminence,” said Professor Lazaratos.
Metropolitan Tychikos is expected to return to Cyprus next Monday, following the conclusion of the proceedings.
Source: CNA / Philenews.com
