It was reported that two suspended clergymen were discovered engaging in sexual activities and secretly tricking parishioners into donating money at the monastery of Osiou Avakoum in Fterikoudi. The raid on the property, ordered by Bishop Isaias of Tamassos, uncovered around 800,000 euros in cash hidden in a safe.
Before the scandal broke, the two monks had been frequently seen on TV and active on social media, claiming to be involved in miracles like curing cancer and helping infertile couples have children. They attracted believers from all over the world who made donations to the monastery. However, it has now come to light that they were involved in financial crimes and misconduct.
Cypriot police are currently investigating the matter and no charges have been filed yet. Additionally, two men have claimed to have been kidnapped during the raid on the monastery. The monks will face removal from office or excommunication when they appear before the Holy Synod in May. The Archbishop of the church has expressed regret over the revelations of fraud and misconduct within the Church of Cyprus. The Cypriot Orthodox Church has also initiated its own investigation into this matter.
