The Orthodox view understands the Church not merely as an institution, but as the living Body of Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit, founded by the Apostles, and preserved through Holy Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and Apostolic Succession.
The Orthodox View of the Church
The Church is One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic
Founded by Christ and continued through the Apostles
Preserved through bishops in apostolic succession
A spiritual family where salvation, healing, and growth occur
“The Church is heaven on earth, where God dwells among His people.”
The Orthodox View of Authority
Christ is the Head of the Church
Bishops are successors of the Apostles
Authority is pastoral, sacramental, and spiritual, not political
Decisions are guided by Scripture, Tradition, Councils, and Canon Law
This understanding is faithfully preserved within the life of the
American Orthodox Catholic Church
and expressed pastorally through the
Episcopal Diocese International.
The Orthodox View of Salvation
Salvation is life in Christ, not merely a legal declaration
A process of repentance, healing, and transformation (Theosis)
Lived through prayer, sacraments, obedience, and love
Cooperation between God’s grace and human response
The Orthodox View of the Sacraments
Sacraments are Holy Mysteries, channels of divine grace
Seven Sacraments at the heart of Church life
The Holy Eucharist is the center of worship and unity
Sacraments unite heaven and earth
The Orthodox View of Worship
Worship is reverent, liturgical, and ancient
Use of icons, incense, chant, and Scripture
Worship involves the whole person: body, soul, and spirit
Earthly worship reflects heavenly worship
The Orthodox View of Church Care
The Church is a spiritual hospital
Clergy are shepherds and physicians of soulsCare includes teaching, sacraments, discipline, and compassionSpecial concern for the poor, suffering, and broken