Metropolitan Tychikos’ state of health revealed
A decision is being made on the need for cardiac surgery.
Metropolitan Tychikos, who has been in an Athens hospital since October 23, is completing a comprehensive cardiological examination. His condition was reported by Fr. Evangelos, a priest of the Patriarchate of Alexandria who is accompanying the hierarch.
According to him, two cardiac surgeons have already been selected for consultations, and their opinion will determine the next steps in treatment.
“If the doctors say surgery is necessary now – we’ll act accordingly. If they say there is no urgent need, the metropolitan will return to the island and take part in the meeting of the Holy Synod, where he was appointed by the Patriarch,” the priest explained.
Fr. Evangelos noted that many believers wished to visit the metropolitan, but visits were not allowed for medical reasons. The hierarch spent all his time in prayer.
Many benefactors offered financial assistance to cover medical expenses. In particular, one philanthropist from the United States offered a large donation – thousands of dollars – for possible treatment in America if surgery becomes necessary.
“All donations were gratefully declined, as both the metropolitan’s family and all of us are able to cover these expenses,” Fr. Evangelos emphasized.
He added that Metropolitan Tychikos “accepted the decision of the Ecumenical Patriarchate” regarding his appeal.
“I know some have criticized this decision, but I want you to understand something. There were some oversights – be aware of that. As a doctor, I understand that even a single oversight can mean a lot. At the very least, I will ask forgiveness for what was overlooked and work to correct it,” said Fr. Evangelos.
Addressing the faithful, Metropolitan Tychikos said: “Glory to God! I thank God and I thank all of you. You have always been by my side – the doctors, the medical staff, everyone who treated me with such kindness. I thank all those who pray and care for my health. I also pray for everyone – especially for Paphos, which I love, and for the Church as a whole. May God grant every good thing to all. Pray for my health, pray for the whole world, pray for our Church.”
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Metropolitan Tychikos had been hospitalized.
