The two monks who have been arrested to facilitate investigations into the Saint Habakkuk monastery scandal are intensifying their campaign against the Bishop of Tamassos, Isaias, accusing him of blackmail and misappropriation of funds, according to a letter circulated among members of the Holy Synod.
Abbot Nectarios and Archimandrite Porphyrios, facing potential charges over allegations they gave the Bishop €450,000, have renewed their claims and are demanding his removal. They allege he used the money to further his ambitions for the archepiscopal throne.
The letter also raises concerns about a March 5 incident involving “hooded individuals” associated with the Bishop, who were allegedly retrieving a safe and documents from the monastery. The Bishop’s side denies these claims, stating the individuals were security personnel.
Police have established a special team to investigate the monks’ allegations. Philenews sources suggest the Bishop’s reputation is irreparably damaged, effectively ending any future archepiscopal aspirations.
The case against the monks is expected to proceed to the Synodical Court, with a potential outcome of defrocking. The monks are likely to appeal any such decision to the Holy Synod.
This escalating conflict is seen by some as part of a wider “settling of scores” within the Church, reflecting rivalries and alliances that predate the election of the current archbishop.
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