Dialogos

Archbishop: Resorting to Political Courts is Outside Church Practice

Published January 7, 2026, 14:03
Archbishop: Resorting to Political Courts is Outside Church Practice

The Archbishop of Cyprus commented on Bishop Tychikos' intention to appeal to the courts regarding church matters, describing the move as outside the established practice of the Church. He expressed concern about the Bishop's decision, questioning whether he is aware of the sacred canons. At the same time, he announced that the issue of amending the Synod's Statute, with the aim of discussing the direct election of Metropolitans by the Synod itself, will be raised at tomorrow's Holy Synod meeting. Regarding the case of the Monastery of Saint Avvakoum, the Archbishop emphasized that the Church has taken the necessary decisions by defrocking those involved, and that the State no longer has a reason to intervene. He also stressed that any sacraments performed by defrocked individuals are invalid.