The enthronement of Metropolitan Gregory as the new Metropolitan of Paphos took place on Thursday evening with solemn ecclesiastical splendor at the Metropolitan Church of Saint Theodore in Paphos.
The ceremony began at 6:00 p.m. in the presence of Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, members of the Holy Synod, government officials, local authorities, and a large gathering of clergy and faithful. Metropolitan Gregory arrived at the Holy Metropolis shortly before the service, during which he was formally installed on the metropolitan throne and officially assumed leadership of the Metropolis of Paphos.
During the ceremony, a small group of individuals supporting former Metropolitan Tychikos attempted to disrupt the proceedings by shouting slogans such as “Unworthy” and “Shame.” Despite the disturbance, the enthronement was completed without further incident.
In his enthronement address, Metropolitan Grigorios delivered a message centered on unity, humility, and spiritual growth. Reflecting on the human search for truth, he remarked that “what one seeks, one finds,” adding that beauty is found both in the soul and in the eyes of the beholder. Quoting Greek Nobel laureate Giorgos Seferis, he noted that “it is a matter of light,” referring to humanity’s continual search for the true light of Christ.
The new Metropolitan called on the faithful to live with a clear conscience, purity of heart, selflessness, and reverence for God. Addressing the people of Paphos, he said that until now he had known the province through its glorious history, sacred monuments, manuscripts, and rich ecclesiastical heritage.
“I have heard from everyone that you are good people, and I have come to know you and serve you as your bishop, spiritual father, brother, and friend,” he said.
Metropolitan Grigorios also paid tribute to the late Archbishop Chrysostomos II, praising his vision and his role in establishing the Theological School of the Church of Cyprus. He likewise commended Archbishop Georgios for his 27 years of service to the Metropolis of Paphos.
Archbishop Georgios, in his address, congratulated Metropolitan Grigorios on his ordination and expressed confidence in his ability to shepherd the historic diocese. He highlighted the new Metropolitan’s education, wisdom, faith, and spiritual qualities, which he said inspire hope for a fruitful ministry.
The Archbishop also reflected on the rich apostolic heritage of Paphos, recalling the ministry of the Apostle Barnabas, the Apostle Paul, and the Evangelist Mark, as well as the saints and heroes who shaped the region’s history.
The enthronement ceremony was attended by all bishops of the Church of Cyprus, sending a strong message of unity and consensus within the Church. Also present were mayors from across the Paphos district, police officials, members of parliament, and numerous faithful.
Earlier in the day, on the feast of the Apostle Barnabas, founder and patron saint of the Church of Cyprus, Grigorios was ordained bishop during a Divine Liturgy celebrated in a packed cathedral before proceeding to his formal enthronement later in the evening.
Source: sigmalive.com
