Orthodox Churches

Orthodox Churches are Christian communities that follow ancient traditions, churches, and liturgies rooted in the earliest Christian heritage, primarily centered in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. They emphasize maintaining continuity with historic Christian practices, including elaborate rituals, icons, and a shared belief in the authority of church councils. The Orthodox Church operates as a communion of self-governing churches, each led by a bishop or patriarch, united in faith and doctrine. Their focus is on living a spiritual life through worship, prayer, and community, celebrating the sacraments as essential to salvation.