In Cyprus, changes to Church Statute to be discussed over Met Tychikos case

The Holy Synod session of the Church of Cyprus on January 14, 2026. Photo: orthodoxianewsagency

The Orthodox Church of Cyprus has begun discussing possible changes to its Statute. As lawyer Achilles Emilianides reported on the "Sigma" television channel, the Synod intends to begin consultations on adjusting the current document following the case of Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos, reports Orthodoxia News Agency.

According to the expert, the Holy Synod intends to hold open consultations during which proposals to update church legislation will be considered. He clarified that no specific decisions have yet been made and that the discussion was prompted by recent events surrounding the removal of Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos from office. Emilianides noted that the discussion may address the mechanism for electing hierarchs and the role of the laity in these processes.

Changes to the provision on the so-called "triprosopo" (Greek - tριπρόσωπο) — a three -candidate list for the election of a hierarch — are also being considered, along with clarification of the rules governing disciplinary procedures. According to the lawyer, there is discussion about granting more authority to the Holy Synod and simplifying the application of disciplinary provisions. He also stated that the Church does not possess criminal jurisdiction and may apply only internal measures.

As the UOJ reported, the Metropolitan Tychikos case will be again considered by the Cyprus Church Synod.

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