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The first comprehensive introduction to the Orthodox Church in the United States from 1794 to the present, this book includes a succinct picture of the distinctive history of Orthodoxy and its particular perspectives on the Christian faith. Attention is given to the contacts between the Orthodox Church and other Christian churches, as well as its contributions to the ecumenical movement. Over 80 biographies of major Orthodox leaders in America also are included along with an annotated bibliography of the writings of the major Orthodox theologians.
The book begins with a review of the historical characteristics and distinctive faith affirmations of Orthodoxy, which has a history that is quite different from Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. Subsequent chapters examine the historical development of the Orthodox Church in this country, with special attention being paid to the early mission in Alaska, the effects of immigration, the organizational developments of parishes and dioceses, the effects of old world politics, the movement toward greater unity, and the distinctive features of American Orthodoxy today. The material is fresh and inclusive, covering all major branches and treating them with an irenic spirit. The biographies are thoughtful and informative, and there is a tremendous amount of bibliographic and reference material. Scholars, practitioners in every faith, and laypersons will find this volume indispensable.
List of contents
Series Foreword
Preface
The Orthodox Church: A HistoryThe Orthodox Church: An Introduction
The Alaskan Mission
Early Parish Development
Early Diocesan Developments
Proposals for Jurisdictional Cooperation
The Challenge of the Old World
The Challenge of the New World
Toward Greater Unity and Witness
An Era of Transitions
Heritage and Vision
Notes
A Biographical Dictionary of Orthodox LeadersAbbreviations Used in This Volume
Appendix I: Chronology
Appendix II: The Autocephalous and Autonomous Orthodox Churches
Appendix III: The Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops
Bibliographic Essay
Index
About the author
THOMAS E. FITZGERALD is Professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in Brookline, Massachusetts. He has served as Executive Director of the Program on Unity and Renewal at the World Council of Churches in Geneva, Switzerland.
