Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus meets for constitutional reform

The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus began a three-day session on May 18, 2026, to review and approve a new Constitutional Charter. This marks the first major revision since September 2010. The proposed draft introduces significant changes, including the election of Metropolitans and Bishops solely by the Holy Synod, excluding broader clergy participation. Another central amendment aims to enable the Synod to pass important decisions by a simple majority rather than the current three-quarters requirement. Archbishop Georgios confirmed that the primary focus of the session is the charter itself, though the process for electing a new Metropolitan of Paphos is expected to follow. Church officials report a positive atmosphere, with the process expected to conclude by Wednesday. The reforms are intended to simplify ecclesiastical procedures and prevent polarization among the faithful.