Changes in Clergy Elections: Only the People Will Vote for Archbishop

Archbishop Georgios' proposal is expected to be submitted to the Holy Synod soon, stipulating that the faithful will only participate in the election of the Archbishop of Cyprus. According to "Phileleftheros", the election of Bishops and Metropolitans will be exclusively by the Holy Synod.

This proposal, although likely to spark discussions, seems to be receiving a positive response among the Synod members. The Archbishop stated that he is not absolute and hopes for the adoption of the proposal by the members of the Holy Synod.

Archbishop Georgios mentioned that the involvement of the people in the election of Archbishops can lead to extra-ecclesiastical interventions and fanaticism. In the last elections in Paphos, only 14% voted, while in the Archdiocesan elections the percentage was 31% nationwide. Therefore, a middle ground is being sought.

The aim of the proposal is to ensure smooth operation of the Holy Synod and to avoid groupings and personal agendas. Church circles argue that the case of Tychikos showed that the choice of the people can be wrong.