Suspended Metropolitan Tikhikos of Paphos has launched a new appeal against the Phanar

Hierarch of the Cyprus Orthodox Church, suspended Metropolitan Tychicus of Paphos, has filed a new appeal with the Patriarchate of Constantinople, challenging the decision of the Synod of the Church of Cyprus to suspend him from ministry. In response, Archbishop George of Cyprus commented on the situation, expressing his opinion about the possible influence on Tychicus by third parties and calling his actions illogical. At the same time, the Paphian Metropolis is preparing the election of a new head, which, according to the new statutes, will be held without the participation of the laity.

According to orthodoxia .info, former Metropolitan Tikhikos of Paphos has made a new attempt to challenge the decision of the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus by filing an appeal (ἔκκκλητον) with the Patriarchate of Constantinople. This decision of the Synod had previously led to his suspension from ministry. Commenting on this development, Archbishop George of Cyprus expressed the assumption that third parties influencing him were behind Tychicus’ actions. He also emphasized the lack of logic in the process of repeated appeals.

The Primate of the Church of Cyprus noted that Metropolitan Tychicus did not take advantage of the opportunity given to him to sign the confession of faith. Regarding his future, Archbishop George left open the possibility of him retaining his priestly ministry if he changes his position. However, he warned that if the former Metropolitan persisted in his views, «there would be no other way out but complete deprivation of the ministry.»

In addition, the Archbishop urged the suspended Metropolitan to hand over the keys to the Metropolitan’s apartment and office, which he still keeps locked. This is necessary for the inventory and subsequent return of his personal belongings.

Earlier, Archbishop George of Cyprus announced that the election of a new Metropolitan of Paphos is expected within three to four months.