Nicosia, Cyprus. The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus on Tuesday elected Archimandrite Georgios Ioannides as the new bishop of Paphos.
Election process
The vote came after the Holy Synod earlier in the day finalised the list of candidates who had expressed interest in the post, which had been vacant since May 2025. Former bishop Tychikos was removed from office, and Archbishop Georgios has served as caretaker since then.
Voting under new statute
The election was conducted by secret ballot among the 16 members of the Holy Synod under the provisions of the new church statute.
Eligibility criteria
Those eligible for the position of bishop of Paphos include celibate clergy, including deacons, as well as monks with a degree from a recognised Orthodox theological school and 10 years of ministry as clergy or in a monastery. Candidates must also be at least 35 years old.