Archbishop George of Cyprus: the election of the new Metropolitan of Paphos marks a new era for the Church

The Holy Metropolis of Paphos is entering a new phase of its development following the election of a new Metropolitan. Primate of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus Archbishop George emphasized that this decision of the Holy Synod was not an impulsive action, but a necessary correction of the situation, which is important for the whole Church. This was reported by the Greek news agency Orthodoxia News Agency.

In his interview, Archbishop George noted that behind the past events in Paphos was a certain «clique» from Thessaloniki, which tried to influence the internal affairs of the Metropolis. The Primate called «tragic» the public statements of the former Metropolitan about the alleged apparitions of the Apostle Paul. At the same time, he clarified that the issue of creating a new metropolitanate in Soli had never been on the agenda — only the possibility of retaining the former metropolitan’s status as a bishop with a certain range of duties was discussed.

Referring to the current tasks facing the new hierarch, the Archbishop expressed confidence in the successful resolution of the disputes over the public park and the construction of the cathedral in cooperation with the local authorities. He also categorically rejected accusations of financial fraud, emphasizing the existence of strict control mechanisms and calling on those who make such accusations to prove them in court.

His Beatitude concluded his remarks by addressing the political situation on the island. He reiterated the Church’s unwavering position for the liberation of Cyprus and the rights of its citizens to free movement and settlement. Archbishop George reiterated that settlement models such as a bicommunal federation or a two-state solution are unacceptable and lead to «national euthanasia.»

Recall that earlier the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus officially elected Archimandrite Gregory Ioannidis as the new Metropolitan of Paphos, completing the process of filling the vacant cathedra. The decision was made in a secret ballot of members of the synodal body, according to the results of which the future hierarch received the support of the majority of votes.