Lythrodontas, Cyprus. Two former monks at the centre of the Avakoum monastery scandal have started a bakery business in Lythrodontas while awaiting trial on a series of criminal charges. The former monks, Nektarios and Porfyrios, said they are beginning “a new chapter” by producing cakes, sweets and other baked goods.
Charges and new business
Nektarios and Porfyrios face charges including conspiracy to defraud, forgery and use of forged documents, theft by proxy, handling stolen goods, money laundering, interference with judicial proceedings and submitting false tax returns.
In a social media post, Nektarios said the former members of the brotherhood are now living in Lythrodontas after what he described as their “illegal, unjust and inhumane expulsion” from the monastery.
He said they had established a business producing birthday and wedding cakes, three-dimensional cakes, wedding sweets, sugar-free desserts, communion bread and other confectionery.
Licensing and deliveries
The announcement said the venture was operating legally and that all necessary licences and approvals had been obtained. It added that the business remained available for inspections by the competent authorities.
According to the post, the group also offers deliveries across Cyprus using a vehicle licensed for food transport.
Public statement
Referring to the events surrounding their removal from the monastery, Nektarios wrote that they had chosen “the path of creation” rather than confrontation.
“The truth has no need for noise. It needs patience, consistency and actions,” he wrote, adding that every difficulty had become “another step forward” and every obstacle “an opportunity to work harder.”
He also thanked supporters for their trust, saying the greatest reward was being part of customers’ special occasions.
The announcement ended with a promotional message encouraging people to place orders, adding that “those who were upset by the above announcement have won a free dessert of their choice.”
