Archbishop George of Cyprus announced the closure of the case of former Metropolitan Tihikos of Paphos

Archbishop George of Cyprus officially commented on the situation around the former Metropolitan of Paphos Tikhikos, admitting his mistakes in assessing his activities and announcing the closure of the case. The Primate emphasized that the hierarch had become a tool in the hands of radical circles and announced possible structural changes in the diocese in the near future.

According to Orthodox Times, Archbishop George expressed public disappointment, noting, «I blame myself. I did not reason correctly.» According to the head of the Church of Cyprus, he had hoped that Tychicus would be able to overcome the difficulties under the guidance and experience of the Church, but the former Metropolitan became «a pawn in the hands of certain people.» The Archbishop claims that Tikhikos’ position was influenced by his hidden links to anti-ecumenical circles in Greece, particularly in Thessaloniki, which promote ideas of disobedience to Church authorities.

Despite the incident, Archbishop George allayed fears of a possible schism, saying that «support for Tychicus in Paphos is minimal.» The Primate also said that the former hierarch was offered the opportunity to continue serving in other positions in the Archdiocese, but did not take up the offer. Due to the vacancy of the cathedra, the Holy Synod may elect a new Metropolitan of Paphos as early as next Tuesday.

Recall, earlier we reported that outside the Archdiocese of Cyprus held a large-scale protest action of supporters of Metropolitan Tychicus, timed to coincide with the upcoming critical meeting of the Holy Synod. The demonstrators demanded the immediate return of the suspended hierarch to his duties and opposed proposed reforms to the Church’s Statutes.