Church of Cyprus addresses tensions involving former Paphos bishop Tychikos

On October 27, 2026, the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus convened to address the ongoing situation surrounding the suspended former Metropolitan of Paphos, Tychikos. The former bishop refused to attend the session, submitting a letter dated October 14, in which he expressed grievances regarding the judicial process and sought clarification on his status, specifically objecting to being referred to as the 'former Bishop of Paphos'. Despite his absence, the Synod accepted Tychikos's request for a private meeting with Archbishop Georgios to discuss his future and the possibility of returning to his duties.

Simultaneously, the Synod discussed reports of a circular letter signed by five individuals, which has been distributed to priests in Paphos and other districts for the past three months. This letter urges clergy to abandon the Church of Cyprus and form a new, opposing ecclesiastical structure. Reports also indicated that private religious services, conducted by a Slavic priest, are being held at a private residence in Paphos. While these matters were acknowledged, the Synod has chosen to monitor the situation discreetly for the time being, maintaining that the faithful and clergy remain unaffected by such movements. The Synod expects Tychikos to appear before it following his meeting with the Archbishop, and a subsequent meeting with the current Metropolitan of Paphos, Grigorios, is planned.