Two monks from the Monastery of Saint Habakkuk in Fterikoudi are firing back against the Holy Synod’s handling of their case.
They plan to send a letter by today outlining their objections to the way the investigation and upcoming trial are being conducted.
Lawyers representing the monks argue that the six-member Synodal Court convened to hear the case was appointed irregularly. They claim the proper procedure, as outlined in the Church’s statutes, dictates a five-member court with an initial investigator.
According to philenews, the letter will allege that the monks haven’t received a formal indictment detailing the accusations against them. They also haven’t been provided with evidence or sufficient time to prepare their defence.
The letter reportedly states they were summoned to the Holy Synod last Friday via text message with no prior warning, hindering their ability to prepare, which is why they didn’t appear.
The two monks, who hold leadership positions within the monastery, face charges of financial misconduct and inappropriate sexual behaviour.
They are expected to attend their upcoming court hearing and present audiovisual evidence and documents alleging wrongdoing by Bishop Isaias of Tamassos and Orini.
The monks, who are related, deny any sexual misconduct. They reportedly plan to argue that the audio recording supposedly incriminating them is nothing more than harmless jokes between them.
The six-member Synodal Court is headed by Bishop Nectarios of Kition.
Read more:
Church refers monks to Synodal Court over Saint Habakkuk scandal
Monks. Monks, Holy Synod, investigation