The Holy Synod has yet to receive any update on the intentions or stance of Bishop Tychikos, who still has not appeared, according to Christakis Efstathiou, Press Spokesperson for the Archbishopric of Cyprus. He added that an extraordinary session of the Holy Synod is expected to be set once the Archbishop of Cyprus returns from abroad.
Speaking to CNA, Mr Efstathiou said the extraordinary session will address all pending matters concerning Bishop Tychikos, including the issue of the Profession of Faith and the implementation of the Synod’s decision for him to move to the Archbishopric to carry out his duties there.
He added that Bishop Tychikos may attend, if he is in Cyprus. The session will also determine the procedure for electing the new Metropolitan of Paphos and filling the Metropolitan throne — most likely early next year, possibly after the Christmas holidays, in line with the Archbishop’s earlier comments.
Church dispute erupts amid pre-election tensions
When asked about the election process, Mr Efstathiou noted that the procedure, as set out in the constitution, does not involve formal candidacies. Instead, the public expresses its preference in an electoral process that concerns only the Holy Metropolis of Paphos. He added that in recent elections certain candidates were informally promoted, but it remains unclear whether the situation will be clearer by then.
He explained that the process includes the election of a three-person shortlist. The Archbishop issues two circulars when the process begins: one to parish priests to prepare and update electoral registers, and a second to the public announcing the election date for choosing the shortlist.
Once the shortlist is selected, the Holy Synod will choose the new Metropolitan of Paphos in a dedicated session.
Asked why the extraordinary session has been delayed, the Archbishopric spokesperson said it was due to existing commitments of the Archbishop or other Synod members. He added that they also allowed a reasonable period of time for Bishop Tychikos to clarify his intentions.
He said the Synod members had considered the possibility that Bishop Tychikos might attend the session, and they may have been waiting for that. He added that the possibility of his attending the upcoming extraordinary session has not been ruled out.
Commenting on the bishop’s refusal to sign the Profession of Faith, Mr Efstathiou said the Synod will review the issue again and take the appropriate decisions.
Also read: Bishop Tychikos fears for his life, says lawyer
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