The Orthodox Church: An Introduction to its History, Doctrine, and Spiritual Culture

A comprehensive study of Eastern Orthodoxy - its historical development and theology - The Orthodox Church is also an engaging assessment of Orthodoxy's political role in today's secularized Western world. A comprehensive study of Eastern Orthodoxy – its historical development and theology – The Orthodox Church is also an engaging assessment of Orthodoxy’s political role in today’s secularized Western world. By tracing Orthodoxy’s roots in Christian antiquity, and the formation of its biblical, doctrinal, and spiritual culture, the book explores and explains the riches of Eastern Christian traditions. Scholarly, timely, and always thought-provoking, The Orthodox Church provides Orthodoxy with the long-awaited voice to engage in a meaningful dialogue with contemporary Western culture. Written by one of the leading Orthodox theologians in the English-speaking world, The Orthodox Church: An Introduction to its History, Doctrine, and Spiritual Culture will unlock the deep mysteries of Eastern Christianity to Westerners. This important work offers the most comprehensive and up-to-date account of the Orthodox Church available, providing a detailed account of its historical development, as well as exploring Orthodox theology and culture Written by one of the leading Orthodox historians and theologians in the English-speaking world Offers an in-depth engagement with the issues surrounding Orthodoxy's relationship to the modern world, including political, cultural and ethical debates Considers the belief tradition, spirituality, liturgical diversity, and Biblical heritage of the Eastern Churches; their endurance of oppressions and totalitarianisms; and their contemporary need to rediscover their voice and confidence in a new world-order Recipient of a CHOICE Outstanding Academic Title for 2009 award