Eastern Rite

The Eastern Rite refers to a group of Christian liturgical traditions associated mainly with Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. These rites are used by churches that are in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church but follow their own ancient liturgical practices, Greek, or Oriental customs. Their services often feature different languages, music, iconography, and rituals compared to the Western (Latin) Rite. The Eastern Rite groups include the Byzantine, Maronite, and Melkite Churches, among others. They emphasize liturgical tradition, use of icons, and distinctive prayer styles, enriching the diversity within the broader Catholic Church.