What Is Orthodox Christianity?

Orthodox Christianity is the Christian faith and life preserved in the Orthodox Church, which understands itself as continuing the faith, worship, and apostolic tradition of the early Church.

What does "Orthodox" mean?

The word Orthodox comes from Greek and is commonly understood as "right belief" or "right worship." In Orthodox Christianity, faith is expressed not only through teachings but also through prayer, worship, the Sacraments, the life of the Church, and the way Christians seek to live in communion with God.

Jesus Christ is at the center

Orthodox Christianity is centered on Jesus Christ, whom the Church confesses as the Son of God who became truly human for our salvation. His Crucifixion and Resurrection stand at the heart of Orthodox faith and worship.

Scripture and Holy Tradition

The Orthodox Church receives the Holy Scriptures within the wider life of Holy Tradition. This includes the worship and teaching of the Church, the decisions of the Ecumenical Councils, the writings and witness of the Fathers and saints, and the continuing liturgical and spiritual life of Orthodox Christians.

Worship and the Sacraments

Orthodox worship is strongly liturgical. The Divine Liturgy, especially the celebration of the Eucharist, has a central place in parish life. Baptism, Chrismation, Confession, Marriage, Holy Unction, and other sacramental actions are understood as part of the Christian life within the Church.

Icons, saints, and prayer

Orthodox Christians use sacred icons in churches and homes, honor the saints, and ask for their prayers. Worship, however, belongs to God alone. Icons and the remembrance of the saints are intended to direct the faithful toward Christ and the life of His Kingdom.

A way of life

Orthodox Christianity is not understood simply as a collection of religious ideas. Prayer, fasting, repentance, works of mercy, participation in worship, and growth in love of God and neighbor are all part of the Christian life. Practices may differ somewhat among Orthodox cultures and jurisdictions, while the essential faith and sacramental life remain shared.