Controversy Surrounds Church’s Unlicensed Raffle for Monastery Project
In a recent development, the Church of Panagia Ayia Napa has been scrutinized for its attempt to fund the completion of a monastery through an unlicensed raffle. The Monastery of Saint Efraim and Saint Catherine, which is at the heart of this controversy, is not only being built without proper permits but is also located in a protected area, raising environmental concerns.
The raffle, promising a gold medallion among other prizes, was organized without securing the required permissions from the Ministry of Interior or the Ministry of Finance, according to a report by philenews. This move by the Church has been deemed a serious offence by the Ministry of Finance, which is responsible for overseeing lotteries in Cyprus. The Ministry is taking action by contacting the Bishopric of Constantia and Famagusta to demand an immediate cessation of the raffle and is preparing to send a detailed report to the Police for further investigation.
Despite the raffle tickets including a section for donations to be made through specific bank accounts, the Church has stated that these accounts are not linked to the monastery project. Instead, they claim the funds are utilized for general charitable activities, such as providing food and medicine to those in need.
The Ecologist Movement, along with other environmental groups, has voiced strong opposition to the Church’s actions. Giorgos Perdikis, President of the Movement, has openly questioned the legitimacy of the raffle and expressed disapproval of the Church’s promotion of an illegal construction project.
This incident has cast a spotlight on the ongoing issues surrounding the Monastery of Saint Efraim and Saint Catherine. The project not only faces backlash for its unlicensed raffle but also risks demolition due to its infringement on environmental laws and zoning regulations.
