| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| BISHOP | BISHOP – (Gr. episkopos) Overseer. A bishop is the leader of a local community of Christians. In the New Testament there is no clear distinction between the offices of bishop and elder (presbyter), both of which function as leaders of the community. However, by the mid- to late first century, the Church began to reserve… Read More |
| TITULAR BISHOP | TITULAR BISHOP – An auxiliary bishop without his own territorial or residential diocese, who is usually assisting a senior bishop with a large jurisdiction (Archbishop or Patriarch). The episcopal title of a titular bishop is taken from an ancient diocese which once flourished but now exists only in name, and, therefore, a titular bishop does… Read More |
| CELEBRANT | CELEBRANT – Person who celebrates the Holy Eucharist – priest or bishop. A deacon may not celebrate the Holy Eucharist, but may assist. |
| ARCHBISHOP | ARCHBISHOP – The bishop of an archdiocese, where there may be several dioceses in his territory. |
| Meeting The Orthodox | Meeting The OrthodoxAn Introduction to the Orthodox FaithQuestions and Answers on the Orthodox Faith by Father Thomas Hopko
1.The Orthodox Church
I have seen the inside of an Orthodox church building. I have attended the Divine Liturgy. It all looks very mystical to me with the vestments, incense, candles, singing…. How would you compare the Orthodox Church to the other Christian Churches of the West? |
| VLADIKA | VLADIKA – When speaking with a Bishop, you should say “Bless, Despota [Thés-po-ta]” (or “Vladika [Vlá-dee-ka]” in Slavonic, “Master” in English). It is also appropriate to say, “Bless, Your Grace” (or “Your Eminence,” etc.). You should end your conversation by asking for a blessing again. This is in respect to the bishop’s teaching ministry (ie,… Read More |
| The Clergy and Their Vestments | The Clergy and Their Vestments. Following the example of the Old Testament Church, in which there were a high priest, priests, and Levites, the holy Apostles also instituted in the New Testament Christian Church the priesthood: bishops, priests, and deacons. They are all called members of the clergy because by means of the Mystery of the priesthood they receive the Grace of the Holy Spirit for sacred service in the Church of Christ: enabling them to celebrate the divine services; teach the laity the Christian faith and holy life; and direct ecclesiastical affairs. |
| AUXILIARY BISHOP | AUXILIARY BISHOP – (also called vicar bishop, suffragan bishop, or chorepiscopus) is a bishop with no territorial authority working under the authority of a diocesan bishop. The auxiliary typically is given episcopal functions to assist the work of the diocesan hierarch under whose authority he operates. He usually holds the title of a city within… Read More |
| OVERSEER | OVERSEER – (an appellation or Title of Jesus) “For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.” 1 Pet 2:25 |