Candidates for the post of Metropolitan of Paphos in Cyprus have been named

In Cyprus, the nomination process for the vacant chair of the Paphos Metropolis has officially ended. According to the Orthodoxia News Agency, by noon on Monday, May 25, 2026, four official applications from candidates wishing to occupy the metropolitan throne had been registered.

The candidates include Archimandrite John, abbot of the Stavropegial Monastery of St. Barnabas the Apostle; Archimandrite Sophronios of the Monastery of Panagia Trooditissa; Archimandrite Gregory (Ioannidis), protosyngel of the Metropolis of Trimiphunte and dean of the Theological School of the Church of Cyprus; and Archimandrite John (Theocharous), who holds the position of protosyngel of the Metropolis of Paphos.

One of the applicants, Archimandrite John, noted in his cover letter his «many years of service» in the Paphos region between 1985 and 2007. He emphasized that his decision was made «with a sense of responsibility» and deep affection for the local community, expressing confidence in the Holy Synod’s decision.

According to the provisions of the new Statute of the Cypriot Orthodox Church, the decisive word in the election of the metropolitan now rests solely with the Holy Synod. The meeting of the hierarchs is scheduled for Tuesday, May 26, where the final list will be approved. It is possible that the new head of the Metropolis will be elected immediately. The Paphos cathedra has been vacant since May 2025, when the Synod decided to depose Metropolitan Tihikos. Until now, Archbishop George of Cyprus has been performing the duties of the abbot.

The preparatory process for the election is taking place against a backdrop of public unrest. On Monday evening, a group of supporters of former Metropolitan Tychicus organized a rally outside Paphos Town Hall, protesting against the appointment of a new hierarch and demanding the reinstatement of their spiritual leader.