The Orthodox Church: An Introduction to Eastern Christianity

Christ be with y’all, and may His Spirit guide you as you read this!I picked up The Orthodox Church by Timothy Ware (now Metropolitan Kallistos) to get a better grasp on the Church’s teachings and history—and honestly, it’s a fantastic read. He does a great job explaining the faith in a way that’s clear and not too heavy, even when diving into deep stuff.The history section is especially helpful—it walks you through the early Church, the schism, and what happened after, without getting overwhelming. And the parts on theology and worship really helped me see how everything fits together in the Orthodox life.If you’re starting to explore Orthodoxy or want a solid overview, this book is a great companion. It’s like having a wise, calm guide walk you through the tradition step by step.May your reading be blessed and your heart be strengthened on the path!

Incredibly helpful in my exploration of Holy Orthodoxy.

I am still reading this book, though I am nearly finished.The book is divided into two main parts: the history of the Orthodox Church, and it's theology and worship. I was mainly interested in the latter, and I imagine most people interested in this book are the same. So, I need to say, the first part of the book is important to understand the second, especially the early chapters. If you skip to the Faith and Worship section, certain aspects of it will be difficult to understand without the historical background detailed in the first half of the book. For instance, he quotes Lossky often throughout the book, and the historical context of Lossky's life facilitates understanding his contributions to theology. Or, the historical background of the East-West schism is necessary to understand the perspectives and differences in East-West theology today.Metropolitan Ware is very knowledgeable and it shows throughout the book. He cites many sources, and expresses his opinions in a thoughtful way. It is certainly an advanced vocabulary and subject, I oftentimes have to re-read paragraphs and occasionally look up unfamiliar words, which I think is a good thing. It is a fascinating subject, and during my work day I find myself looking forward to when I can continue reading it at home.If you are interested in the Orthodox faith, this is a good place to start in my opinion, though I am just getting started myself.

While very extensive a read, this book is a necessary introduction to the world of Eastern Orthodoxy. Going through the chronicle of Eastern Orthodox churches and notable clergy, and then explicating the doctrines and traditions of the same, this book is highly recommended to those seeking to understand the totality of what it means to be Eastern Orthodox. I do, however, find it quite an issue to those who simply may need a condensed version.

Don’t get me wrong, this book is fantastic in laying out the history and evolution of Eastern Orthodoxy; however, it must be said that it can be dry in some places. Fr. Timothy Ware lays out detail after detail, and at times it can become ponderous. If you love the history of Eastern Europe, it will probably seem like a breath of fresh air, especially if you are interested in the history of the Slavic Church. The author was originally an Anglican-believing Englishman, who made the switch to Orthodoxy sometime later in his life. As such he has the advantage of being of the West and the East, and it gives him a good somewhat unbiased outlook. At the end of the day, however, this book is one of the best English accounts you are likely to ever find on Eastern Orthodoxy. It might not be perfect, but what book on religion really is? (On a side note, some have complained about the text is very small and surely it is! It has become a sticking point with most good books out there, that small text is being used, likely to save paper and cut costs. Not the best move in my opinion. Just saying.)

A very good introduction to Orthodox History. I learn more from this book than some of my classes during my time in school. Definitely recommend for beginners and was worth it. Lord Jesus Son Of God Have Mercy On Me!

I'm an inquirer for Orthodoxy (for a bit now) and this book does very well to answer questions that is good for Protestants such as iconography, heresies, and how the ancient fathers understood Christ and its importance on faith.

Essential learning for Orthodoxy