Cyprus Orthodox leader will discipline bishops who refuse to welcome Pope

June 01, 2010

Archbishop Chrysostomos II, the head of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus, is warning that he will discipline any bishop who boycotts the June 4 welcoming ceremony for Pope Benedict XVI. Viewing the Pontiff as a “heretic,” the five bishops who have threatened to boycott the ceremony risk expulsion from the Church’s holy synod for a year.

The nation of 800,000 is 78% Orthodox, 18% Muslim, and 2% Catholic.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Cyprus prepares for first papal visit (The National)
• Cyprus: Orthodox leader rebukes prelates who oppose papal visit (CWN, 5/26)
• The Orthodox Church of Cyprus (CNEWA)