Metr. Tychikos Issues Official Statement Rejecting Removal as Unjust
The former Metr. of Paphos described his removal as deeply unjust, saying he was not properly heard and now seeks vindication through legal and ecclesiastical appeals.
PAPHOS, CYPRUS - Metr. Tychikos issued a statement addressing his removal from the Metropolis, describing it as “uncanonical” and claiming the decision was effectively predetermined before he was fully heard. He said he served the local Church for approximately 25 years and maintained that his ministry was rooted in pastoral care rather than personal ambition or status.
The former hierarch alleged that the disciplinary process lacked clarity and fairness, stating that he was not fully informed of the accusations or evidence against him. He further claimed that his appeal to the Ecumenical Patriarchate did not result in a substantive review of his case, and that unrelated theological questions were raised instead of the specific charges. He also described what he characterized as pressure, interruptions, and verbal criticism during proceedings, while firmly denying wrongdoing. Metr. Tychikos spoke personally to those who have supported him through this process:
You know me. You know me not from rumors, nor from accusations, but from our daily common journey within the Church. You know my love for Paphos, for its people, for our priests, for the monasteries, for our saints, for the young people, for the poor and suffering people who daily sought a word of comfort and hope.
Metr. Tychikos said he intends to pursue legal action through the Cypriot state and, if necessary, European courts, seeking annulment of the decision and a full review of the process. While expressing pain and a sense of injustice, he also encourages the faithful not to lose trust in the Church, calling for prayer, forgiveness, and unity. He emphasized that he remains committed to the Church and hopes for eventual vindication, framing his appeal as a matter of procedural justice rather than conflict with ecclesiastical authority.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Church of Cyprus advanced the selection process for the Paphos see.
