Speaking on state radio, the Archbishop said the Holy Synod concluded that the developments in Paphos were not isolated incidents but part of a broader situation that needed correction for the benefit of the Church as a whole.
At the same time, he pointed to the existence of an organised circle based in Thessaloniki, claiming that a specific “clique” had influenced developments around the Metropolis and maintained ties with the former Metropolitan even before his election. The Archbishop described as “tragic situations” the former Metropolitan’s public references to an alleged appearance of the Apostle Paul.
According to information, the alleged group is said to be led by Theodoros Zisis, a former professor at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and a figure linked to the so‑called “Old Calendarist” movement. The same sources indicate that members of these circles do not recognise patriarchs and hierarchs, avoid liturgical references to them and identify themselves as separate from the mainstream Church.
Reports also indicate that individuals linked to this circle travelled from Thessaloniki to Paphos, including Demos Serkelidis, who was later defrocked by the Synodical Court.
Further information suggests that former Metropolitan Tychikos travelled to Thessaloniki and concelebrated with members of these groups. These matters were reportedly brought to the attention of the Archbishop through complaints from the Metropolis of Neapolis in Thessaloniki, alleging participation of clergy from Cyprus in services conducted by such groups.
Sources within the Church say that once the Archbishopric became aware of the extent of the issue and the alleged involvement of the former Metropolitan, it proceeded with measures including Serkelidis’ defrocking.
The same sources note that these groups operate mainly in Greece but organise through online platforms, often under pseudonyms, and are said to launch personal attacks against ecclesiastical figures.
They are also described as being in strong opposition to the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Church of Greece, accusing them of engaging in dialogue with other Christian denominations. Church sources say these groups at times drew sharp distinctions between “pure” and “impure”, presenting themselves as the authentic expression of Orthodox faith.
For this reason, the Archbishop has at times referred to such tendencies as “ultra‑Orthodox”.
Church observers believe that these disagreements centre on the participation of the Orthodox Church in inter‑Christian dialogue, with the Archbishop considering that the former Metropolitan of Paphos was influenced by more extreme circles.
Supporters reject new Metropolitan
At the same time, supporters of former Metropolitan Tychikos have expressed strong dissatisfaction with recent developments. In a statement, they said they do not accept the appointment of the new Metropolitan, Archimandrite Grigorios Ioannidis, describing it as incompatible with their ecclesiastical and spiritual understanding.
They also expressed support for the former Metropolitan and said they will continue to voice their disagreement publicly.
No plans for new Metropolis
Addressing reports about the possible establishment of a new Metropolis in Soloi, Archbishop Georgios clarified that no such matter had ever been discussed. He said the only proposal considered was for the former Metropolitan of Paphos to remain in a role as Bishop with specific duties and responsibilities.
