Reactions to Tychikos' Confession: Not Officially Received, No Mention of Kolymbari

A text purported to be the confession of faith of the former Metropolitan of Paphos, Tychikos, has been circulating online, causing discussions within the Church of Cyprus. The Archbishop of Cyprus stated that he has not officially received the text, but will read it if he does.

Theologian Theodoros Kyriakou stated that the confession is divided into an announcement and a confession of faith. In the announcement, Tychikos mentions an irregular procedure at the Synod and refers to his actions, such as the announcement against Savvas Lavriotis.

A crucial point is the absence of any reference to the Synod of Kolymbari in the confession of faith. Kyriakou argues that this is significant, as Tychikos seems not to be bound by the decisions of the Synod.

The Synod of Kolymbari is important for the Church of Cyprus, as texts were signed regarding the relationship of the Orthodox Church with other Christians. Some hierarchs, such as Morphou, Lemesou, Ledras, and Amathountos, would not re-sign the decisions of Kolymbari.

Regarding the Synod of Kolymbari, some 'super' Orthodox disagree with the use of the term 'church' for other Christian denominations. The Synod recognized other Christian communities without equating them with the Orthodox Church.

The Archbishop called on Tychikos to make a confession in order to participate in the Synod. Tychikos reportedly sent the confession to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Elections for the Metropolis of Paphos are expected six months after the dethronement of the previous Metropolitan.