The Ecumenical Patriarchate has unanimously endorsed the decision of the Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus concerning the former Metropolitan of Paphos, Tychikos, effectively confirming his removal from office.
Tychikos had lodged an appeal with the Patriarchate, claiming his dismissal by the Cypriot Synod last May was uncanonical and procedurally flawed.
In a meeting on Friday, 17 October 2025, the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate examined his petition in detail. The former hierarch appeared before the Synod, answered questions regarding the charges against him, and presented his defence.
After reviewing the case file, the Patriarchate acknowledged certain procedural irregularities during the initial hearing before the Church of Cyprus, particularly concerning its Constitutional Charter. However, it concluded that the substance of the case justified the original ruling.
The Synod therefore voted unanimously to ratify the Church of Cyprus’s decision, advising Tychikos to accept the outcome for his spiritual welfare and for the preservation of unity within the Church.
Following the Holy Synod’s decision removing Bishop Tychikos, the Archbishop had requested that Tychikos sign a profession of faith acknowledging the decisions of all Ecumenical Councils, with emphasis on the 2016 Council of Crete. Despite meetings between Tychikos and the Archbishop, this has not occurred, leaving the matter unresolved.
Bishop Tychikos must sign the profession to retain his episcopal position. He will also need to relocate to the buildings of the Archbishopric of Cyprus in Nicosia, where he will be provided accommodation and assigned new duties by the Archbishop. Currently, Bishop Tychikos resides in the Paphos Metropolis quarters.
If all proceeds smoothly and Tychikos does not refuse, it’s suggested he may be named Bishop of Kourion, Soloi or Lapithos, ancient episcopals dating back to the early centuries of Christianity. Should Tychikos refuse to comply with the decisions of both the Holy Synod and now the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the possibility of his defrocking cannot be ruled out.
Regarding the election of a new Metropolitan of Paphos, this is expected to take place in the early months of 2026.
Also read: Tychikos hearing set for Friday at Ecumenical Patriarchate
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
