How did Orthodox Christianity start?

The Orthodox tradition developed from the Christianity of the Eastern Roman Empire and was shaped by the pressures, politics and peoples of that geographical area. Since the Eastern capital of the Roman Empire was Byzantium, this style of Christianity is sometimes called ‘Byzantine Christianity’.

When did Greek Orthodox Christianity begin?

Officially, the history of the church begins at Pentecost, which is documented in the Acts of the Apostles and took place in 33 A.D. During Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles and the people who had gathered and they began to speak in tongues.

Is Orthodox Christianity growing?

Orthodox Christians exist in greater numbers today than in the past, yet represent a diminished share of Christians worldwide. Confined primarily to an aging Europe and strongly tethered to tradition, Orthodox Christianity may need to change its ways to remain relevant, say some practitioners.

What makes Orthodox Christianity different?

Orthodox and Protestants reject Papal infallibility and Papal supremacy. Orthodox Christians are not under the authority of the Pope. They are under the authority of various Patriarchs. Encouraged in the Catholic & Orthodox Churches; most Protestants only pray directly to God.

Are the Greek Orthodox Catholic?

Historically, the term “Greek Orthodox” has been used to describe all Eastern Orthodox churches in general, since “Greek” in “Greek Orthodox” can refer to the heritage of the Byzantine Empire. Thus, the Eastern Church came to be called “Greek” Orthodox in the same way that the Western Church is called “Roman” Catholic.

Is Greek Orthodox the same as Catholic?

Over time, most parts of the liturgy, traditions, and practices of the church of Constantinople were adopted by all, and these still provide the basic patterns of contemporary Orthodoxy. Thus, the Eastern Church came to be called “Greek” Orthodox in the same way that the Western Church is called “Roman” Catholic.

How many Orthodox Christians live USA?

The Orthodox Church in America, with roots in Moscow and about 85,000 adherents, reports a 50 percent figure. In Greek Orthodox Christianity, by far the largest branch in the United States with almost 480,000 members, it’s about 25 percent.

How did Orthodoxy begin and has it changed over time?

Discover an overview of Orthodox history and beliefs from the past to present day. How did Orthodoxy begin and has it changed over time? Orthodox: (of a person or their views, especially religious or political ones, or other beliefs or practices) conforming to what is generally or traditionally accepted as right or true; established and approved.

What should I know about being an Orthodox Christian?

Discussion of issues revolving around conversion to the Orthodox Christian faith. Discussion of issues and inquiries related to the Orthodox Christian faith. Discussion of hot topics that may be of a polemical nature. (NOTE: No Political discussion. Please PM Fr. George for access to the Politics Forum.) Thoughts on this article?

Is there a discussion board for Orthodox Christians?

Moderated Forums For lively discussion and debate, no polemics (except in Free-For-All and Orthodox-Other Christian boards). Discussion of issues revolving around conversion to the Orthodox Christian faith. Discussion of issues and inquiries related to the Orthodox Christian faith.

How many Orthodox Christians are there in the world?

Yet despite these increases in absolute numbers, Orthodox Christians have been declining as a share of the overall Christian population – and the global population – due to far faster growth among Protestants, Catholics and non-Christians. Today, just 12% of Christians around the world are Orthodox, compared with an estimated 20% a century ago.