Paphos, Cyprus. Supporters of former Paphos bishop Tychikos gathered on Monday outside the Paphos municipal hall to oppose the procedures underway for choosing his replacement after his removal from office. The protest came as church authorities prepared to move forward with the selection process.
Selection process
Church authorities have received four candidacies, and the synod is expected to take decisions in upcoming meetings. At the same time, the synod has been examining possible changes to the election system for the vacant Paphos see, including proposals that would allow direct appointments by the synod instead of wider electoral procedures.
Protesters’ stance
Demonstrators displayed banners in support of Tychikos and rejected the legitimacy of the process. Messages included slogans such as “the only legal and canonical one is Tychikos” and statements opposing the appointment of a successor.
Ongoing controversy
The gathering was part of a series of public expressions of support for the former bishop since his suspension and removal, a process that has caused internal divisions within the church and among its faithful. Supporters have rejected the synod’s decisions, arguing that his removal was unjust and calling for his reinstatement or a reversal of disciplinary measures.
Archbishop’s remarks
The case has also been addressed publicly by Archbishop Georgios, who has defended the synod’s handling of the matter. He said earlier that “I blame myself for not correctly measuring his capabilities and strengths” in relation to Tychikos’ initial appointment, and added that Tychikos maintained connections with groups outside Cyprus that opposed positions adopted officially by the Orthodox Church.
Previous demonstrations
Earlier protests in support of Tychikos have included demonstrations outside the archbishop’s palace in Nicosia.
