Apostolos Tomaras
The Holy Synod of the Church of Cyprus is examining a wide-ranging overhaul of its governing charter, 16 years after the current framework was introduced, with church sources saying the proposed changes could be “sweeping.”
The review began on Tuesday and is expected to conclude on Wednesday, when bishops will vote on a package of amendments to the Church’s constitution.
According to church officials, the revisions touch on key areas of governance, including how senior clergy are elected, an issue that has gained attention following recent developments in the Metropolitan Diocese of Paphos and the removal of Bishop Tychikos.
Although discussions are taking place behind closed doors, sources say the atmosphere during the first day of deliberations was positive, with reported agreement on several initial points.
Church insiders say most of the changes are based on 16 years of experience under the current system, with bishops aiming to address practical and administrative weaknesses that have emerged over time.
One of the most significant proposals under consideration concerns the way bishops are elected.
Under the suggested changes, the involvement of lay voters in the election of bishops could be abolished, giving the Holy Synod full control over the selection process. If approved, the synod would have the final say in all episcopal appointments, including future elections such as the next metropolitan of Paphos, currently under temporary oversight by Archbishop Georgios.
Another major area of reform involves the Church’s internal legal framework, with discussions reportedly focusing on a broader revision of ecclesiastical law that was last updated in 2010.
A third set of proposed changes relates to modernizing pastoral and administrative procedures within the Church.
The Synod is also considering removing the requirement for special majorities in decision-making, a move that would simplify how internal decisions are approved.
Final approval of all amendments is expected when the Synod concludes its work on Wednesday.
