Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus has addressed the recent leadership changes within the Paphos Diocese, stressing that the decisions were not driven by financial considerations, personal disputes or superficial reasons.
Speaking during the first clergy assembly of the Paphos Diocese under the leadership of the newly appointed Metropolitan of Paphos, Gregorios, the Archbishop said he attended not only to deliver a greeting but also to answer questions that have arisen regarding the recent developments.
“There are certain things that have been allowed to circulate,” he said, adding that the reasons behind the decisions taken “were neither superficial, nor the result of personal confrontation, nor financial in nature.”
The Archbishop also pledged his full support to Metropolitan Gregorios and firmly rejected allegations relating to financial misconduct.
“The people of Paphos know me. If there had been any financial irregularity, it would already be known,” he stated, adding that the Church’s books and accounts remain open to inspection and that no financial scandal or wrongdoing exists.
Concern over priest shortages
Addressing the shortage of clergy, Archbishop Georgios acknowledged that the issue affects all dioceses across Cyprus but noted that it is particularly acute in Paphos due to the large number of villages and communities within the district.
“It is not possible for every community to have its own priest,” he said.
When asked about the future of the former Metropolitan of Paphos, the Archbishop said there were currently no new developments.
“If he insists on remaining where he is, he will remain inactive and the matter will be examined by the Holy Synod, which will decide whether any further action is required depending on any steps he may take,” he explained.
Comments on the Cyprus issue
Turning to the Cyprus problem, Archbishop Georgios argued that Turkey’s objective remains the occupation of the entire island.
He said Hellenism must work to prevent the Turkification of Cyprus, unite its efforts and make full use of the European and international framework, as well as human rights principles, in order to continue the struggle for the island’s liberation.
New Metropolitan calls for unity
For his part, Metropolitan Gregorios said the gathering was not his first meeting with the clergy of the Diocese, but described it as significant because it brought together the entire priesthood for the first official clergy assembly of the new era.
He emphasised that the work of the Church and pastoral ministry is a shared responsibility and underlined that the Diocese continues the mission that began with the spread of Christianity in Paphos.
Metropolitan Gregorios also described the Autocephalous Church of Cyprus as “the most precious thing we have” and urged the public to exercise caution regarding information published online, while promoting responsible use of social media.
He further praised “the wonderful people of Paphos,” saying they are being unfairly defined solely by recent events.
“We will not allow the spiritual thirst and needs of the people to be overshadowed by these issues,” he concluded.
Source: Cyprus News Agency (CNA)
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