Orthodox Christian Identity in Western Europe: Contesting Religious Authority

This book explores the discourses of Orthodox Christianity in Western Europe to demonstrate the emerging discrepancies between the mother Church in the East and its newer Western congregations. It examines pastoral, ecclesiological, institutional, and ecumenical discourses to present a holistic view of how the Church views itself and how it seeks to interact with other denominations. It will be a valuable guide to scholars studying the Orthodox Church, ecumenism, and religion in Europe.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 282 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate discourses of Orthodox Christianity in Western Europe, shedding light on the growing disparities between the mother Church in the East and its newer Western congregations. Spanning over a century, it meticulously examines the origins and evolution of these discourses, exploring the challenges faced by the Orthodox Church in the modern world.

The book is structured into four distinct discursive fields, each providing a unique perspective on the Orthodox Church in Western Europe. These fields include pastoral, ecclesiological, institutional, and ecumenical discourses, which collectively offer a holistic understanding of how the Church perceives itself and engages with other denominations.

Through a meticulous analysis of these discourses, the book reveals a discursive vitality that extends beyond the traditional Orthodox societies, although it is only partially reabsorbed by the church hierarchs in core Orthodox regions such as Southeast Europe and Russia. This exploration highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of the Orthodox Church as a global reality, making it an invaluable resource for scholars engaged in the study of the Orthodox Church, ecumenism, religion in Europe, and theology in general.

In conclusion, this book offers a profound exploration of the Orthodox Church in Western Europe, providing valuable insights into the evolving discourses that shape its identity and mission. It serves as a crucial guide for scholars, researchers, and practitioners interested in understanding the complexities of the Orthodox Church and its role in the broader religious landscape.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367632533