Supporters of the former Metropolitan of Paphos, Bishop Tychikos, insist his removal stems directly from the deep Moscow–Constantinople schism rather than personal misconduct.
Speaking on Sigma TV’s “Protoselido”, Kyriakos Kyriakou, a member of the bishop’s support group, said the case has now reached the Greek Parliament. A parliamentary question to Education Minister Sofia Zacharaki asked whether she had complained to the Archbishop of Cyprus about Tychikos. The minister denied ever making such comments, undermining one of the public accusations used against him.
The real root: Moscow vs Phanar
Kyriakou described this as “just a small piece” of a much larger orchestrated campaign. The support group had repeatedly asked the Holy Synod to publish the letters from the Ecumenical Patriarchate, America and the Metropolis of Neapolis, claiming none demanded deposition or removal.
He argued the crisis reflects the Moscow–Phanar rift that intensified after the 2016 Crete Council and the granting of autocephaly to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. These events split the Church of Cyprus into pro-Phanar and pro-Moscow factions.
Caught in the crossfire
Tychikos, according to Kyriakou, found himself caught in the middle. Initially supported by the Synod majority, he later faced pressure when perceived as no longer aligned with the pro-Phanar line. Accusations, leaks and media attacks followed, creating an atmosphere of slander.
A key issue remains the Synod’s demand that Tychikos re-sign a “Confession of Faith” with explicit reference to the Crete Council. Kyriakou stressed the bishop already submitted the confession at his consecration and again when requested. Insisting on a new version, supporters argue, turns a theological matter into political coercion.
Between two fires
Tychikos now stands between two fires: the Archbishop urges compliance for reinstatement, while many faithful beg him not to sign, fearing it would be seen as capitulation. The pressure has taken a serious toll on his health.
Kyriakou appealed for calm, warning that continued escalation risks a new ecclesiastical schism. “There is still tomorrow,” he said, urging everyone to place love for the Church above factionalism.
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