Abp. Georgios Says Defrocking is a Possibility if Metr. Tychikos ‘Persists’
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
BOSTON — Abp. Georgios of Cyprus has warned that defrocking Metr. Tychikos of Paphos remains a possibility if he fails to repent and comply with the decisions of the Holy Synod, which has placed him under indefinite suspension.
In an interview with The National Herald, Abp. Georgios said the Synod had acted with compassion by suspending Metr. Tychikos rather than immediately imposing harsher penalties, stressing that continued disobedience could lead to further discipline. He accused Metr. Tychikos of becoming influenced by "anti-ecumenist" circles that, he said, recognize Orthodox authenticity only in themselves.
Asked directly whether defrocking was under consideration, the Archbishop replied that it would be inevitable if Metr. Tychikos persisted in his actions. When reminded that Metr. Tychikos was familiar to him and had previously been promoted by him, Abp. Georgios stated that he has counseled and corrected the Metropolitan personally throughout these matters, but he and the Church had not known his "capabilities" or "connections."
Previously, the UOJ reported that the faithful of Cyprus have published an open letter in support of Metr. Tychikos.
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