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 souls
- Care includes teaching, sacraments, discipline, and compassion
- Special concern for the poor, suffering, and broken