A fierce disagreement has erupted between Paphos Metropolitan Tychikos and Archbishop Georgios over relics of the Saint Paul, the apostle.
At the heart of the dispute is Tychikos’ refusal to allow the relic of Apostle Paul’s skull to be brought from the Vatican to Paphos. According to a report on Philenews, Tychikos opposes the move, claiming the Pope is a heretic.
The plan to bring the relic to Paphos was approved years ago by the late Archbishop Chrysostomos II. It aimed to honour Paphos as a site where Apostle Paul once preached, marking an event of global religious significance.
When Georgios, who supported the idea as Paphos metropolitan, became archbishop, Tychikos, his successor, blocked the proposal.
Archbishop Georgios expressed frustration over the rejection.
“The Pope wasn’t coming, only the relic. Even if he were, should we refuse to meet him? This decision feels outdated,” he said.
Georgios called on Tychikos to reconsider his stance, encouraging progress and openness within Orthodox traditions.
Efforts to discuss the matter have failed. Georgios described the situation as unworkable.
“You can’t have a discussion when the only answer is, I don’t want this,” he explained.
The archbishop suggested external pressures might be influencing Tychikos.
“He never expressed concerns about heretics before. This sudden change is strange,” he added.
Georgios admitted he no longer visits Paphos Metropolis, saying he feels unwelcome.
“It’s upsetting to feel this way, but I avoid going there,” he said.
He also warned that Tychikos’ refusal could isolate Paphos from the rest of the church.
“This situation risks harming both the Church’s unity and its followers,” he said.
The disagreement remains unresolved, with no clear path to reconciliation. As tensions rise, many worry about the long-term impact on the church and its community.
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