Eastern churches, also known as the Eastern Christian Churches or the Eastern Orthodox Churches, refer to various Christian denominations and communities that are distinct from the Western churches, primarily represented by the Roman Catholic Church and Protestant denominations. These Eastern churches are characterized by their different liturgical practices, theological traditions, and ecclesiastical structures.
The term "Eastern churches" encompasses a broad range of denominations, the most prominent being the Eastern Orthodox Church, which includes the Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, and Armenian Apostolic Churches, among others. Other Eastern churches include the Oriental Orthodox Churches, such as the Coptic Orthodox Church and the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, as well as the Assyrian Church of the East and various Eastern Catholic Churches, which are in communion with the Roman Catholic Church.
The Eastern churches trace their origins back to the early Christian communities in the Eastern part of the Roman Empire, particularly in regions such as Byzantium (now Istanbul), Syria, Armenia, and Egypt. They have distinctive liturgical traditions, such as the Byzantine rite, which is characterized by elaborate and ancient forms of worship, including iconography and chanting.
The Eastern churches also hold unique theological perspectives and emphasize the mystical and contemplative aspects of Christianity. They have distinct ecclesiastical structures, including autonomous patriarchates, metropolises, and dioceses, governed by bishops and patriarchs.
While the Eastern churches share a common commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostolic faith, they have developed diverse customs, practices, and cultural expressions, reflecting the rich diversity of the regions in which they have been rooted for centuries.
