THE GREEK CHURCH
Here a short overview about the Greek Orthodox Church, architecture and art,
common rituals and Serifian churches.
The history of the Greek Orthodox Church began when Christianity reached Greece
during the Apostolic Age (1st century), largely through St. Paul.
The church in Greece became part of the early Christian world centered in the Eastern
Roman/Byzantine Empire.
During the Byzantine Era from 330 to 1453 (centered in Constantinople) the Greek Church
developed distinct liturgical practices, theology and artistic styles.
The Orthodox Church during the Ottoman Period from 1453 to 1821, preserved the Greek language,
culture, and identity under the Ottoman rule.
The Patriarch of Constantinople retained spiritual authority.
He became a central figure for Orthodox Christians.
Modern Greece became independent in the years of 1821 to 1830 and the Church of
Greece became independent in 1833.
The Greek Orthodox Church plays a strong cultural and national role in Greek identity.
The domes symbolize heaven, the central domes are often decorated with
Christ Pantocrator, 'Ruler of All' looking down on you.
The inside walls of the churches are decorated with many icons and religious paintings
separating the nave from the sanctuary (iconostasis). Also the walls and ceilings are
covered frescoes and mosaics, showing biblical scenes, saints, and the life of Christ.
A typical Byzantine church layout with a central dome supported by four columns.
The three typical styles Byzantine (4th–15th century), Post-Byzantine and Modern Orthodox.
The classic Byzantine style, can be seen in Hagia Sophia (Istanbul), Monastery of Hosios Loukas,
and others. Post-Byzantine, styles adapted under Ottoman influence
after the fall of Constantinople in 1453), and were becoming more regional and modest.
The modern Orthodox style maintains traditional forms with new materials like concrete
and steel, but of course keeping the same sacred layout.
GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH - THEOLOGY & CORE BELIEFS
• Trinitarian Monotheism is the belief in one God in three Persons:
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
• Incarnation and Theosis, Christ became man, so humans might become like God,
the theosis that means spiritual transformation.
• Leading a Sacramental Life which is the Emphasis on Holy Mysteries (sacraments),
like Baptism, Marriage, Chrismation (Confirmation), Eucharist, Confession, Holy Orders,
Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Tradition
• The Scripture is part of a broader Holy Tradition, which includes the writings
of the Church Fathers, ecumenical councils, liturgy, and icons.
• Authority comes not just from the Bible but also from the living
faith of the Church guided by the Holy Spirit.
