Kyriakou: Serious Homosexuality Issue in the Church of Cyprus

Theologian Theodoros Kyriakou expressed fears of new cases in other Metropolitan areas, following the defrocking of Archimandrite Varnavas and Deacon Raphael by the Synodal Court. The decision, with a majority of four to two, followed complaints regarding the case of the Holy Monastery of Avvakoum.

Speaking on State Radio, Mr. Kyriakou stated that there is a serious problem of homosexuality in the Church of Cyprus and that some cases are handled internally. However, in this specific case, there were complaints that could not be ignored. The investigative committee worked for nine months, indicating the existence of evidence.

Mr. Kyriakou stressed that these cases trouble the Church and scandalize the world, emphasizing the need for limits and for resolving problems out of the public eye. He pointed out that the defrocking of the two hieromonks means they can no longer perform sacraments.