Deposed Paphos bishop told to vacate church residence ahead of successor’s enthronement

Paphos, Cyprus. Deposed Bishop Tychikos has been formally instructed to vacate his residence in Paphos ahead of the enthronement of his successor, Bishop Gregorios, scheduled for June 11.

Notice delivered after failed in-person contact

According to local reporting, a church official attempted to serve the letter in person but did not receive a response at the door. The document was then transmitted via the messaging app Viber to ensure delivery of the decision.

The notice instructs Tychikos to leave the apartment he has been using within the church complex. Church sources cited in the reports said the move was intended to facilitate an undisturbed assumption of duties by the incoming bishop.

Arrangements tied to leadership change

The correspondence was reportedly issued by Archbishop Georgios, who is acting as de facto bishop of Paphos until the enthronement. The letter does not originate from Bishop Gregorios himself.

According to the same sources, the outgoing arrangements also take into account that Tychikos is understood to have private accommodation available.

Earlier correspondence had indicated that, if the keys were not handed over, further steps could include police intervention. Church officials have previously said that Tychikos remains on leave following the synod’s decision to depose him, while legal proceedings connected to his status have been ongoing.