Eastern and Western Church

Steven Chu

History

Gradual Schism between Orthodox east and Latin West Cultural, political, and economic factors Mediterranean world split into two Barbarian invasions invaded west and split the west amongst the barbarian chiefs. Cut off from Byzantium

History (cont.)

West set up Roman Empire of its own. Holy Roman Empire

Pope assigned Charlemagne to rule. Tried to earn recognition from Byzantium Byzantines regarded Charlemagne as an intruder

Orientalium Ecclesiarum
It was passed by the assembled bishops by a vote of 2,110 to 39 and promulgated by Pope Paul VIon November 21, 1964. The name means "Eastern Churches" in Latin Individual Churches and Rites

Orientalium Ecclesiarum cont. .

Statement by the Oriental Orthodox Churches, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 1965 Though in our concern for the reunion of Christendom we have in our minds the reunion of all churches, from the point of view of closer affinity in faith and spiritual kinship with us we need to develop different approaches in our relationship with them.

Orientalium Ecclesiarum cont.

I. Of Faith in the Holy Trinity. II. Of the Word or Son of God, which was made very Man III. Of the going down of Christ into Hell. IX. Of Original or Birth-Sin.

Reconciliation

As two families of Orthodox Churches long out of communion with each other we now pray and trust in God to restore that communion on the basis of the common apostolic faith of the undivided church of the first centuries which we confess in our common creed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qcvu8CYysig

Personal View

Personally, I believe that separation was probably the best choice but... Today, a more united religion is called for

Reflection

Is it right for the Church to split itself because of its differences? Do you feel that the world needs a more united religion or many different, separate religions? Have you ever let a small conflict between you and a friend hinder your friendship?

Works Cited
"Decree

on the Catholic Churches of the Eastern Rite Orientalium Ecclesiarium." Vatican: The Holy See. Web. 09 Mar. 2012. <http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_ decree_19641121_orientalium-ecclesiarum_en.html>.

Alexander. "Excerpts from the Orthodox Church by Bishop Kallistos Ware." Byzantium: The Great Schism. Web. 09 Mar. 2012. <http://www.fatheralexander.org/booklets/english/history_timothy_ware_1.htm>. Jinnder123. "Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic Church Seeking Unity." YouTube. YouTube, 02 July 2008. Web. 09 Mar. 2012. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qcvu8CYysig>.