In the small village of Fterikoudi, at the foot of the Troodos Mountains, a shocking scandal has unfolded in the monastery of Osiou Avakoum. Cypriot Bishop Isaias of Tamassos led a raid on the property, where approximately 800,000 euros in cash was discovered in a safe.
The local media reportedly broadcast footage showing two clergymen urging parishioners to donate money to the monastery by secretly using myrrh in a metal cross to make it appear as though it was bleeding. The same reports also claimed that the clergymen were filmed engaging in sexual activity.
Before this scandal, the monks were known for their miraculous claims and had attracted thousands of believers worldwide with their requests for donations. Now, Cypriot police are investigating financial crimes committed by the monks, although no charges have been filed yet.
Additionally, an investigation has been opened after two men filed a complaint stating that they were kidnapped by masked individuals during the raid. The monks are set to appear before the Holy Synod after Orthodox Easter, where they could face removal from office or excommunication. The Cypriot Orthodox Church has initiated its own investigation into these allegations.
