Archbishop of Cyprus to Tychikos: Await Phanar’s Decision Before Serving in Paphos
Cypriot Synod reaffirms ban on liturgical functions pending Ecumenical Patriarchate ruling
NICOSIA — The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus has formally barred Metropolitan Tychikos from performing any liturgical services within the Metropolis of Paphos, citing his pending appeal to the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
In an official letter signed by Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, acting as Locum Tenens of the vacant Paphos see, the Synod reminds Mr. Tychikos that its May 22, 2025 decision remains in force: he is considered removed and placed at the disposal of the Church, pending the submission of a confession of faith acceptable to the Synod—which they claim he has yet to provide in spite of his June 22 letter.
The Archbishop underscores that “due to your petition to the Ecumenical Patriarchate, a specific assignment by the Holy Synod cannot be made now but only after the Patriarchate’s decision.”
As a limited concession, Met. Tychikos is granted permission to celebrate the Divine Liturgy on July 5 at the Church of St. George of Mesana for the memorial service of his mother.
Additionally, Archbishop Georgios notes that the Synod has accepted his proposal to offer temporary hospitality to Met. Tychikos at the Holy Archdiocese of Cyprus, should he so desire.
The letter concludes with a firm admonition: “The Holy Synod calls your attention to the strict adherence to its decisions.”
This development marks another chapter in the ongoing ecclesiastical dispute over the canonical status and future of the former Metropolitan, as the Church of Cyprus awaits further guidance from the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
