The Holy Synod convenes urgently today amid open institutional issues, as stated by Holy Archbishopric spokesman Christakis Efstathiou. The Bishop Tychikos case persists despite prior discussion, due to his appeal to the Supreme Court – a development breaching Synod conditions for his return barring civil court recourse.
Efstathiou stressed this raises grave canonical and ecclesiastical matters. Sacred canons forbid clergy appeals to state courts; confirmation could constitute disobedience, potentially leading to severe sanctions including defrocking. The Synod awaits official court notification before positioning itself.
Proposed statute charter reforms
More pressing: revisions to the Church of Cyprus Statute Charter. Archbishop will present comprehensive proposals addressing judicial ambiguities and conflicts hindering practice. Central: separate bishop/metropolitan election process from Archbishop’s, excluding public input in initial shortlisting – unlike Archbishop elections.
Three-quarters Synod majority required for changes. Discussion may include assistant bishops in major dioceses, with Synod participation rights akin to chorbishops, influencing decisions.
Avvakum Monastery monks issue
Avvakum Monastery monks feature on agenda amid sensitivity over reports – including footage – of them performing sacraments. Regardless of veracity, Synod feels duty to clarify: such rites, if occurring, lack validity and recognition, preventing false impressions of legitimacy.
Priority lies in informing faithful transparently, not immediate discipline, as civil proceedings pend with repeated adjournments. Efstathiou noted the issue evolves in prolonged process, underscoring Church clarification needs.
Also read: Tychikos eyes ECHR after Holy Synod ruling
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