Controversy in Cyprus: Faithful Rally Behind Deposed Metropolitan Amid Political Overtones

pafospress.com

PAPHOS, Cyprus—The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus formally announced the dismissal of Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos on May 22, 2025, sparking significant public backlash and prompting widespread demands for transparency. Reports of political motivations behind the move have drawn increasing scrutiny, particularly among the faithful of the Paphos region.

In response to the Synod’s decision, thousands of parishioners have signed online petitions voicing support for the Metropolitan and expressing deep concern over the process. One prominent petition emphasizes Metropolitan Tychikos’s longstanding service, spiritual dedication, and administrative capability:

As believers of the Church of Cyprus and as active members of society, we express our deep regret and concern for the decision of the Holy Synod to dismiss Metropolitan Tychicos of Paphos from his duties. Metropolitan Tychicos served the Church with devotion, humility and spiritual zeal. Many of us have come to know him personally and have witnessed his love for God's people, his theological training and his administrative ability.

The petition outlines three core requests: a review of the Synod's decision, transparency regarding the reasons behind the dismissal, and a continued role for Metropolitan Tychikos in the life of the Church.

In addition to these petitions, peaceful demonstrations are being organized. The Parishioners Initiative Group of the Holy Metropolis of Paphos has called on residents to gather in solidarity at Paphos City Hall Square on Sunday, May 25. The demonstration is intended to show support for the Metropolitan and advocate for accountability within Church leadership.

Notably, support for Metropolitan Tychikos extends beyond laypeople. Andreas Sikkis, Deputy Mayor of Geroskipou and member of the throne committee of the Holy Metropolis of Paphos, publicly criticized the Synod’s decision, describing it as “a black page in ecclesiastical history.” He added:

"None of the accusations were criminally punishable, we are not talking about scandals or crimes, we are talking about ecclesiastical issues, administrative decisions, disagreements and interpretations that could and should have been resolved through dialogue, brotherly love and prudence. Instead, the path of silent execution was chosen." 

Following the announcement of his dismissal, Metropolitan Tychikos addressed a crowd of faithful and members of the press, stating:

“I do not believe I did anything blameworthy that weighs on my conscience… I respect the decision of the Holy Synod.”

Despite his measured response, tensions in Paphos remain high, especially in light of recent statements by Archbishop Georgios, who revealed in an interview with Orthodox Times that he had come under pressure from both the Patriarch of Constantinople and the Greek government to charge Metropolitan Tychikos with apostasy. In a previous interview, the Archbishop alleged that Metropolitan Tychikos may be influenced by unidentified foreign interests—claims that have been neither substantiated nor widely accepted.

Over the past two years, Metropolitan Tychikos has been the subject of sustained negative media campaign, much of it originating from liberal-leaning outlets with connections to both the Patriarchate of Constantinople and elements within the Greek government. Observers suggest this media campaign, combined with institutional pressures, may have played a role in shaping perceptions and internal dynamics within the Church.

Paphos occupies a particularly strategic position within the Church of Cyprus. It is traditionally seen as the second most influential episcopal seat and holds the right of investiture in leadership transitions. In fact, the last three Primates of the Church of Cyprus ascended from the Paphos See. Consequently, critics argue that removing a traditionally minded hierarch from this post could have broader implications, particularly with respect to the Church's position on theological and ecumenical matters, including potential moves toward union with the Roman Catholic Church.

Archbishop Georgios has publicly stated his belief that the Church of Cyprus should follow the Patriarchate of Constantinople in pursuing an imminent reunion with Rome—a stance opposed by the majority of the Church’s hierarchy or laity.

Met. Tychikos has expressed a desire to retire to Mount Athos, a move opposed to by Patriarch Bartholomew and the Greek Government.

UOJ previously reported on the deposition of Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos.

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