Speaking to the faithful gathered outside the Metropolis of Paphos just hours after the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus declared him removed from his episcopal duties, Metropolitan Tychikos expressed sorrow and acceptance, saying: “I respect the decision of the Holy Synod.”
According to news.rik.cy, the now-former Metropolitan referred to “very difficult moments” and acknowledged that, being young both in age and in his episcopal ministry, he may have made mistakes. However, he firmly stated, “I do not believe I did anything blameworthy that weighs on my conscience.”
He reiterated his love for Paphos and its faithful, emphasizing that his aim was always to produce spiritual work. “I asked the Holy Synod for leniency and one final opportunity, but it was not granted,” he said.
In closing, Metropolitan Tychikos urged the faithful to “continue to struggle and remain close to the Church.”
Archbishop of Cyprus: Many opportunities were given to Metropolitan Tychikos
Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, in statements to Cypriot media, confirmed that Metropolitan Tychikos was given numerous opportunities to change course.
Referring to the Synod’s official communiqué, the Archbishop stressed that the accusations against Metropolitan Tychikos had been brought to his attention multiple times during previous Synod meetings, with no change in attitude. As a result, additional complaints had emerged.
The Archbishop further revealed that “today he tried, deceitfully, to conceal the cleric he ordained and sent to Thessaloniki.” He added: “It could not go on any longer.”
He also acknowledged that Tychikos may have been influenced by others. “Perhaps he had weaknesses, and some people led him down certain paths,” he said, highlighting that Tychikos’ “anti-communion stance endangered the Church of Cyprus’ relationships with other Orthodox Churches.”
Archbishop Georgios clarified that Metropolitan Tychikos remains a bishop and a member of the Holy Synod “because the Synod acted with leniency.” However, he stressed that the former Metropolitan must submit a written confession of faith, explicitly denouncing anti-communion (the so-called “apotikhisi” movement). “If he does not comply,” warned the Archbishop, “the Synod will convene again to reconsider the matter.”
The Archbishop also mentioned that some Synod members might have had “agendas” in their stance but emphasized that everyone acknowledged the administrative weaknesses in the Metropolis of Paphos.
He confirmed that the allegations against Metropolitan Tychikos, especially regarding “apotikhisi,” were raised not only by the Ecumenical Patriarchate but also by the Greek Government.
“There is a risk that the foundations of the entire Orthodox Church may shake. If we create schisms among the Orthodox, we cannot stand anywhere,” the Archbishop warned.
He also admitted to having been misled by Tychikos: “While he was close to me, he was an obedient child. But when he took power, he erased all of us and acted as if he knew everything.”
Finally, the Archbishop made it clear that if complaints are made against any other bishop, “the Holy Synod will examine them. What happened today may serve as a lesson for all.”
On reports suggesting intervention by the President of the Republic, the Archbishop clarified that President Nikos Christodoulides “never intervened” and even requested the removal of related publications.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
