AOCC& EDI
American Orthodox Catholic Church (AOCC)
The American Orthodox Catholic Church is a historic Orthodox Christian jurisdiction that preserves the apostolic faith, sacramental life, and episcopal governance of the ancient undivided Church. Faithful to Holy Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the Nicene Creed, AOCC maintains continuity with the catholic and orthodox heritage of Christianity while engaging in pastoral mission across nations and cultures.
The Church is governed according to the episcopal model, with bishops standing in apostolic succession, entrusted with teaching, sanctifying, and shepherding the faithful.
Episcopal Diocese International (EDI)
Episcopal Diocese International functions as an episcopal missionary diocese operating under the spiritual authority, canon law, and ecclesial discipline of the American Orthodox Catholic Church. EDI exists to extend the Church’s pastoral, missionary, and sacramental ministry beyond national boundaries, particularly in India and the international mission field.
EDI upholds orthodox doctrine, catholic worship, and apostolic order while responding to contemporary pastoral and missionary needs.
Canonical Relationship
The relationship between AOCC and EDI is canonical, ecclesial, and episcopal:
AOCC serves as the mother Church / ecclesiastical authority
EDI operates as an international diocesan structure under AOCC
Bishops, clergy, and ministries of EDI are canonically accountable to AOCC
Doctrine, liturgy, and discipline are governed by AOCC canon law
This relationship ensures unity of faith, sacramental validity, and episcopal oversight across all diocesan and missionary activities.
Shared Faith & Ecclesiology
Both AOCC and EDI affirm:
One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church
Apostolic Succession through the historic episcopate
Seven Sacraments of the Church
Orthodox theology and catholic worship
Mission, pastoral care, and social witness
Mission & Vision
Together, AOCC and EDI seek to:
Proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ faithfully
Establish and oversee parishes, missions, and clergy worldwide
Train and ordain ministers according to apostolic order
Preserve orthodox faith while engaging global mission
Serve society through compassion, justice, and mercy
Ecclesial Identity
American Orthodox Catholic Church provides the apostolic foundation and canonical authority
Episcopal Diocese International expresses this authority through global diocesan and missionary ministry
United in faith and order, AOCC and EDI continue the Church’s sacred calling:
“To guard the faith once delivered to the saints and to make disciples of all nations.”
