THE 15 points levelled by the Church’s special investigation committee against Limassol Bishop Chrysanthos in its report.
1. Chrysanthos failed to submit documents and give evidence to the committee when requested.
2. The bishop co-operated with individuals and foreign companies of a dubious nature.
3. It was discovered that the bishop had foreign bank accounts without permission from the Central Bank, as required by law.
4. Transactions were made with the knowledge and instruction from the Limassol bishop, but these were not registered in the Metropolitan’s official accounts.
5. Contracts and financial obligations were made without Chrysanthos informing or acquiring permission from the Holy Synod or other relevant Church bodies.
6. Chrysanthos owned immovable property abroad but failed to gain approval from or inform the Holy Synod about it.
7. The bishop became a shareholder in a foreign company before asking the Holy Synod’s approval.
8. He used Limassol Metropolitan official papers and the official seal for his own personal business, which made the Church legally responsible for any deals he made.
9. Chrysanthos acted as a mediator to secure loans and promote investment programmes of dubious credibility. As a result, investors were deceived and legal proceedings are pending against him.
10. Contradictory statements were given to the committee, the media and the Holy Synod.
11. He was unwilling to reveal or verify certain facts, allegations or evidence, which would have assisted the committee.
12. Chrysanthos and his colleagues frequently travelled abroad: mostly these trips had nothing to do with Church business or with his duties.
13. He received and transferred large amounts of cash which could have been a product of money laundering.
14. The bishop secured bank guarantees for large sums using unfounded pledges.
15. Money was made available from a bank account which was not registered anywhere, thus leaving open the possibility that this money could have been used for purposes against the donor’s wishes.
Chrysanthos’ lawyers have responded to the 15 points, denying the allegations, dismissing them or questioning any proof of wrongdoing.
