The Transformation of Greek Orthodox Ecclesiastical Institutions in Cyprus, 1878-1931

Abstract

In this discussion, I outline the transformation of Greek Orthodox identity in Cyprus during the first 50 years of British rule over the island. The year 1931 marks the first Greek Cypriot anti-colonial revolt (Oktomvriana), and the post-1931 period constitutes the period in which the Greek Cypriot goal of union (enosis) with Greece is forcefully put forth in the political agenda. In the article's opening section, I outline the main institutional and political changes of the post-1878 period. In this era, ecclesiastical institutions underwent a major internal transformation as the religious hierarchy reasserted its authority in the face of new and threatening legislation enacted by the British. In pursuing this goal the church hierarchs became increasingly involved in the politics of Greek Cypriot nationalism. This involvement was expressed in a twofold manner: on the one hand, the hierarchs succeeded in legitimizing themselves as elected representatives of the Greek Cypriot community in the colonial administrative and legislative structures; while on the other hand, the church's extensive involvement in education allowed it to identify its own authority with the defense and propagation of pro-Greek national sentiment.