Eastern Christianity has a long and storied history, with roots stretching back thousands of years. From the early days of the early church in the Roman Empire to the modern day, its presence has been felt in many parts of the world. This article will explore the history of Eastern Christianity, the various forms it has taken, and its current state today.
The earliest forms of Eastern Christianity emerged in the Roman Empire during the first century AD, with St. Paul and St. Constantine’s role in propagating the faith having a major influence. Eastern Christianity, as it was then, was heavily influenced by Greco-Roman philosophical thought and late Judaism, leading to the formation of a theological and liturgical tradition that differed from its Western counterparts.
Eastern Christianity found its way to the geographical areas of Asia, and later Africa and the Middle East, in the form of Christian monastic and missionary movements, beginning around the time of the First Council of Nicaea in 325AD. Over the next centuries, it was vigorously spread widely, often alongside Islamic forces in what is now the Middle East, North Africa, and South and East Asia.
Centers of Eastern Christianity such as Constantinople and Alexandria developed their own distinct traditions and approaches to the faith, with theological disputes often taking place. From the fifteenth century onwards, Eastern Christianity was largely surrounded by Muslim-majority states, leading to numerous customs being developed in order to ensure peaceful co-existence.
The Eastern Christianity of today stands as a diverse entity, encompassing numerous denominations, such as Greek, Russian, Syrian, and Armenian. Its practices, traditions and customs form a rich tapestry, from liturgy and church architecture to the veneration of saints and religious art. The presence of Eastern Christianity in the world today is a testament to its resilience in the face of adversity.
Eastern Body of Christian Canon Law
Eastern Christianity is distinct in its use of Canon Law, i.e., the code of laws, regulations, and norms that govern the functioning of the church. The Eastern Christian Canon Law is also known as ‘nomocanon’, combining civil and religious legislation into one system. It is based on the interpretation of Scripture, the decisions of ecumenical councils, and the writings of the Fathers of the Eastern Church. The collection of Canon Law was initially compiled by Photios the Great in the 9th Century, although different iterations have been produced since.
The Eastern Body of Canon Law does not permit or recognize the concept of papal infallibility. While the Church has often consulted the pope on matters of doctrine, the Eastern tradition fundamentally operates on the basis of consensus, with the faith of the church being held up by the ‘consensus patrum’, the united belief of the ecumenical councils.
Further laws and regulations relating to Eastern Orthodox Christianity have also been established by various regional churches and councils. As such, certain regional customs and practices may be added to the body of canon law, and some may be dismissed. This has resulted in the formation of different branches of Eastern Christianity, each with its own distinctive practices.
Relationships With Other Christianity Denominations
Over the centuries, relations between Eastern and Western Christianity have experienced both periods of friendship and conflict. Today, Eastern and Western churches still do not fully recognize one another’s sacraments as valid. However, in 1965, the two branches of Christianity signed the Joint Declaration of the Catholic-Orthodox Churches. This outlined important steps of reconciliation between the two faith traditions, and worked towards resolving their mutual disagreements.
Despite still having many differences, Eastern and Western Christians now share much in common. Numerous joint initiatives have been launched in the spirit of collaboration, and both branches now view the other as being a legitimate part of the worldwide Christian community.
The history of Eastern Christianity has been a long and varied one, encountering different forms of persecution and adaption along the way. The faith has evolved and flourished, remaining resilient in its tenacity, and by remaining true to its roots.
Current State Of Eastern Christianity
Currently, Eastern Christianity is estimated to have nearly 300 million adherents worldwide, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and the Caucasus region. Although not as numerous as its Western counterpart, Eastern Christians are still able to wield significant cultural and political influence, with several Eastern Orthodox countries having strong Christian presence.
In terms of theological understanding and approach, Eastern Christianity has continued to remain true to its roots. Believers are heavily invested in the teachings of the early Church Fathers, and veneration of Mary, the Mother of God, is a prominent feature of their faith. It also stands distinct in its worldview, heavily emphasizing the idea of ‘theosis’, or the transformation of man into the image and likeness of God.
Eastern Christianity took hit due to Turkey’s power of conversion and rule of Ottoman Empire, which almost obliterated Eastern Christianity from the Middle Eastern regions, leaving them as minority. Moreover, in this age of scepticism and apathy, people have forgotten the true essence of Eastern Christianity. It is imperative that the people of Eastern faith reclaim it in this postmodern age and bring back the awareness it deserves and communicates its message to the world.
Prominent Eastern Christians That Changed History
Throughout the history of Eastern Christianity, many prominent figures have arisen to make an impact on their faith and the world. These include the likes of Joan of Arc, Pope Pius IX, Saint John of Damascus, and Saint Seraphim of Sarov, to name a few. Their courage and conviction, as they faced persecution and odds to uphold their faith, has left an indelible mark on the history of Eastern Christianity.
Eastern Christians have also made a great mark on the world at large. One of the most remarkable among them was St. Cyril and St. Methodius, two brothers from Thessaloniki. In the 9th century, they developed the Cyrillic alphabet and brought it to the Slavic peoples, transforming not only their religious practices, but also their cultural, social and linguistic lives.
Similarly, the Eastern Orthodox church has been essential in the preservation of much artistic heritage, having contributed to the beauty and splendor of cathedrals around the world. Iconography, an art borne from Eastern Christianity, has been adopted by many cultures outside of the faith, with some of the most notable examples being in Greece, Croatia, and Russia.
Eastern Churches and Institute of Ecumenism
The Eastern Orthodox churches have played an important role in the development of the Institute of Ecumenism, an organization that seeks to promote dialogue and reconciliation between faith traditions. Established in 1960, the Institute organizes dialogues between Christian churches and other faiths, helping to foster an understanding of cultures and traditions of different faith groups.
In recent decades, the Eastern churches have become increasingly involved in international ecumenical affairs. Numerous Eastern Christians actively engage and provide input within such organizations, often working alongside representatives of other denominations. In this way, bridges of understanding are being built between faiths, increasing harmony and tolerance.
Eastern Christians are renowned for their cultural and religious contributions. Their spiritual and moral teachings have benefitted many civilizations, and their stance on ecumenism remains a beacon of hope for the future of global religious understanding and unity.
Eastern Christianity and the Modern World
Eastern Christianity has entered the modern world with its values of justice and compassion. Its influence can be seen in the modern democracies, laws and regulations, and education system. Faith-based charities, such as the philanthropic initiatives of the Orthodox Church, are transforming lives of countless people from all walks of life.
In recent years, the Eastern church has developed closer ties with both the Roman Catholic and Protestant branches of Christianity. In November 2016, Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church met for the first time since 1054, breaking the nearly-1,000 year schism between the two branches. In October 2018, the two churches also issued a joint statement further addressing issues such as marriage and family life, poverty and injustice, and protection of the environment.
Eastern Christianity continues to shape the world around us. Through its compassion, hospitality, and acceptance of diversity, it is helping to build bridges between different cultures, nations and faiths. Its many institutions and organizations reach out to the world, striving for the greater good and for peace among all.
Eastern Christianity and Technology
Today, Eastern Christianity is making great use of technology in order to reach out and spread its message to the world. Much like other religions, it is reaching out to new audiences and generations through its presence on social media. Furthermore, with the rise of the internet and its ease of access, it has become easier to find useful material and resources related to Eastern Christianity.
The Eastern Church also takes advantage of new technologies to strengthen its internal practices. For instance, it has been increasingly making use of electronic databases and software to store and manage information, such as membership lists, donation records, and parish registers. Online services such as Skype and Zoom have also been used to facilitate virtual gatherings and events, compensating for the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.
By leveraging new technologies and platforms, Eastern Christianity is able to fulfill its mission of spreading its message and witness of faith, hope and love to people from all walks of life. The impact of this, both internally and externally, cannot be overstated.
Eastern Christianity and the Challenges of Tomorrow
Eastern Christianity faces many challenges in the modern world, especially in its mission to reach the younger generations. With competing ideologies and values, there is a need to reinterpret the core principles of the faith in order to make it more relevant and understandable to contemporary audiences.
The dominant presence of secularism poses a significant threat to the faith as well. Eastern Christianity must find ways to continue to work towards its mission of evangelization and transformation of the world, while in dialogue with society. It must also remain abreast of the changing times and constantly look for new avenues of communication.
Despite these challenges, the faith is showing great resilience, having adapted and evolved over its long centuries of life and history. Through the humility and confidence of its adherents, Eastern Christianity continues to remain faithful to its roots and exemplifies the courageous spirit it was birthed from.
