Tensions within the Orthodox Church of Cyprus appear far from over, as yet another dispute surfaced on Monday among senior clergy, this time over the election of the new pope.

The latest row involves Archbishop Georgios and the outspoken Bishop of Morphou, Neophytos. Just weeks after a public falling-out between the archbishop and Bishop of Paphos Tychikos over the planned arrival of Apostle Paul’s relics, a new war of words has erupted, this time triggered by comments on the newly elected Pope Leo XIV.

Speaking publicly, Bishop Neophytos launched a scathing attack, calling the new pope a “poor servant of darkness” and denouncing the church he represents as “anti-Christian”. He went further, claiming that “the last Orthodox Christian baptised with Holy Chrism [holy anointing oil] is greater than the Pope”.

The archbishop, however, took a markedly different tone. Commenting on Pope Leo’s election, he stressed the importance of inter-church dialogue and cooperation.

“We are confident that our collaboration will continue. What matters to us is the institution, not the person,” he said.

“I believe the dialogue under the Ecumenical Patriarchate will move forward, so that Christians can present a united voice in a world dominated by other faiths,” he added.

He expressed hope that the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches would strengthen their relationship. The archbishop also referred to a meeting that had been planned with the late Pope Francis. He said fresh steps would now be taken to organise a new visit.

“We will definitely travel to Rome, and we will invite the new pope to Cyprus. I am confident the process will continue,” he said.