Exploring the History and Traditions of the Greek Orthodox Church

History and Origins

The Ekklisia emerged from the Eastern Roman Empire, building upon the Christian faith that spread across the Mediterranean...

Split from Roman Catholic Church

During the Middle Ages, tensions grew between the church centered in Constantinople and the church in Rome. This ultimately led to the Great Schism of 1054 which divided Christianity into the Roman Catholic Church based in the West and the Greek Orthodox Church predominant in the East.

Ottoman Occupation

When Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1453, the Greek Orthodox Church was important in helping Greeks preserve their culture, identity, and traditions under Ottoman rule...

Traditions and Practices

Liturgy

The Divine Liturgy is central to Greek Orthodox worship. This elaborate ritual involves...

Fasting

In the Greek Orthodox faith, fasting is an important spiritual practice typically tied to preparations before major feasts and holidays...

Feast Days

The Greek Orthodox calendar consists of a rich tapestry of feast days celebrating saints, martyrs, and events from scripture and church history...

The Ekklisia in Modern Greece

Today, The Ekklisia retains an important place in Greek culture and society...

FAQs

What is the proper name for the Greek Orthodox Church?

The Greek Orthodox Church is referred to as the "Ekklisia" in Greek, which means "assembly" or "congregation." This name emphasizes the community-oriented concept of church in Eastern Orthodoxy.

How is Greek Orthodox theology different from Western Christianity?

Some key theological differences include Greek Orthodoxy's use of icons, rejection of legalistic atonement, less focus on original sin, understanding of heaven and hell as experiential states rather than physical places, etc.

What language is the Divine Liturgy celebrated in?

The Divine Liturgy in Greek Orthodox churches is typically celebrated in Koine Greek, the language of the New Testament and early Christian worship. However, local languages like Arabic or English are used at times too.

Do Greek Orthodox clergy members marry?

Unlike Roman Catholic priests, marriage is allowed for Greek Orthodox priests and deacons before their ordination. Bishops are selected from among the unmarried clergy members, or widowers.