Patriarchate of the East

The Patriarchate of the East refers to one of the major divisions within the Eastern Orthodox Church, headed by a patriarch who oversees a specific geographical region called an autocephalous or self-governing church. It includes churches in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Each patriarchate maintains its own hierarchy and traditions but shares beliefs and communion with other Orthodox churches. Key patriarchates in the East include Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, and Jerusalem. Together, they play a vital role in preserving Orthodox Christian doctrine, liturgy, and community life across their territories.