Church of Cyprus convenes as tensions escalate with former Metropolitan of Paphos

The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus held an emergency session on October 27, 2026, to address ongoing disputes surrounding the suspended former Metropolitan of Paphos, Tychikos. The cleric, who was removed from office following a disagreement with Archbishop Georgios and a refusal to sign a 'libellus' (declaration of faith), did not attend the meeting. In a letter dated October 14, Tychikos expressed reservations regarding procedural fairness, alleging that a previous hearing was unfairly converted into a judicial proceeding without notice. He further requested clarifications on his status and permission to resume his religious duties.

The Synod also discussed reports of a campaign orchestrated by supporters of the 'apoteichismos' (walling-off) movement. Letters signed by five individuals have been circulated to priests in Paphos and other districts, inciting them to break away from the Church of Cyprus and form a new ecclesiastical structure. Reports have also emerged regarding private religious services held by supporters in private homes. While the Synod did not reach a final decision on these matters during the emergency session, it accepted a request from Tychikos for a private meeting with Archbishop Georgios to discuss his grievances. Following this, he is expected to meet with the current Metropolitan of Paphos, Grigorios, and potentially reappear before the full Synod.