Introduction to Orthodoxy
The Orthodox Churches of the East trace their roots back to the Apostles and Jesus Christ. They developed within the Greek-speaking eastern branch of the Roman Empire. The Eastern Orthodox Church accepts the first seven Ecumenical Councils and regards itself as the True Church, they use the term Orthodoxy derived from the Greek words "orthos" and "doxa" meaning correct belief. There are two branches of Orthodox faith, The Oriental Orthodox churches in the middle east including the Coptic Orthodox church, and the Eastern Orthodox churches including the Greek Orthodox church. Although there are many cultural, theological and ecclesiastical differences among the churches the ultimate goal for Orthodox Christians to continually draw themselves closer to God throughout their lives to become more holy and rid themselves of sin. They do this by devoting themselves to God through constant prayer and worship. The Church is organized in a Episcopal structure including Four Patriarchs and multiple declared bishops. The Orthodox worship is highly liturgical and iconographic, their icons include depictions of Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Saints while the liturgies involve chanting or singing. The Eastern Orthodox Church places great importance on the Bible, the Creeds and the seven ecumenical councils. Like all other Christians, Orthodoxy is Trinitarian, believing that God exists in the three people of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.