The former Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos has submitted two Statements of Faith to the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus and the Ecumenical Patriarchate. He states that he did so to dispel any shadow of doubt regarding his doctrinal stance and his relationship with the canonical order of the Orthodox Church.
In a letter dated December 8, 2025, addressed to Archbishop George and the members of the Holy Synod and revealed by Paphos correspondent Marios Ignatiou, Tyhikos revisits the spiritual and canonical aspects of the decisions affecting him following the Synod’s May 22, 2025, ruling that dismissed him from the Metropolis of Paphos.
Explicit Acceptance of the Holy Canons
Tychikos unequivocally declares his acceptance of the Apostolic Canons, the Holy Canons of the Ecumenical and Local Councils, and the doctrines of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. He emphasizes that he has never questioned the commemoration of the name of the Archbishop of Cyprus or the synod’s functioning, and he rejects any association with heretical or schismatic practices.
He also notes that matters of faith and unity are historically determined only on a synodal basis, not unilaterally.
Objections to the Dismissal Procedure
Regarding the May 22, 2025, decision, Tychikos raises serious objections to the process followed. He describes it as a non-canonical procedure and a violation of the Church of Cyprus’s Statutory Charter.
According to Tychikos, the Holy Synod failed to address the central issue of the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s decision, which he claims involves essential procedural omissions that render the decision invalid.
Appeal to the Courts
Tychikos announces his intention to appeal to the Supreme Court of the Republic of Cyprus and, if necessary, to the European Court of Human Rights. He clarifies that his appeal concerns the legality of the procedure, not theological matters.
Request to Suspend the Election of a New Metropolitan
He requests the suspension of the election process for a new Metropolitan of Paphos until a final court ruling is issued, emphasizing that an election under the current circumstances would take place through a disputed process.
He states that, until a final judgment is reached, he will refrain from participating in relevant Holy Synod sessions while remaining in Paphos and continuing his pastoral work wherever permitted.
Statement on the Future
Finally, Tychikos notes that if the May 22, 2025, decision is reviewed and revoked, he will not exercise his right to run for Archbishop in the next election for the sake of the Church’s unity and peace.
He concludes his letter with an appeal for justice, respect for the Holy Canons, and preservation of the unity of the Church of Cyprus.
Source: sigmalive.com
