Nicosia, Cyprus. The Paphos diocese is entering a new era following the election of its new bishop, Archbishop Gregorios said on Wednesday. Archimandrite Gregorios Ioannides was selected on Tuesday as the new bishop of Paphos by the Holy Synod.
Election of the new bishop
The position had been vacant since May 2025 after former bishop Tychikos was removed from office, with Archbishop Gregorios serving as caretaker since then. Asked about the new bishop receiving 11 of 16 votes, he told CyBC radio that the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus had understood that what happened in Paphos was not the result of impulsive actions, but a situation that needed to be corrected for the good of the wider Church.
Comments on the process
He said behind the events was a “clique” in Thessaloniki that had influenced developments, adding that there had been ties with the former bishop even before his election. The archbishop also described as “tragic situations” the former bishop’s public claims regarding an appearance of the Apostle Paul.
Former bishop’s accusations
Former Paphos bishop Tychikos on Monday accused Archbishop Gregorios and former Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos of conspiring against him. He also said the disciplinary process that led to his removal from office was unfair and predetermined.
Other issues raised
Asked whether there had ever been plans to create a new diocese in Soli, Archbishop Gregorios said the issue had never been raised. He added that the only proposal discussed had been for the former bishop to remain in position with specific responsibilities.
Local matters
Referring to issues facing the new bishop, the archbishop pointed to the public garden and the bishopric’s church, expressing confidence that a solution would be found in cooperation with local authorities.