orthodox Tradition

Eastern Orthodox

An ancient family of churches rooted in the Christian East, preserving the liturgy, theology and spirituality of the early Church through the centuries.

Quick answer

Eastern Orthodox is one of the Christian traditions covered by Church Near Me, with 17 UK churches listed — most numerously in London, Birmingham, Manchester. This page explains its history, beliefs and worship, and links to every local congregation (directory data verified 1 July 2026).

History & Origins

The Orthodox churches trace their origin directly to the apostles. They became distinct from the Roman Catholic Church after the Great Schism of 1054. Today they are organised as a communion of self-governing national churches — Greek, Russian, Romanian, Serbian, Antiochian and others — many of which have parishes throughout the UK.

What Makes the Eastern Orthodox Distinctive

One of the oldest continuous Christian traditions, preserving the faith and worship of the early Church.
Worship centres on the Divine Liturgy, most often that of Saint John Chrysostom, rich in chant, incense and ceremony.
Icons are venerated as windows to heaven, and churches are filled with them.
Governed conciliarly by patriarchs and bishops in communion — there is no single pope.
Keeps ancient fasting seasons and, in many churches, the older Julian calendar.

Core Beliefs

The Holy Trinity
The two natures of Christ — fully God and fully man
Salvation as union with God (theosis)
The seven sacraments (Mysteries)
The veneration of icons and saints
Tradition and Scripture as one organic whole

Worship & Practices

Richly liturgical, with chanted prayers, incense, icons and the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom. Worshippers often stand throughout the service.

The Divine Liturgy on Sundays and feast days
Veneration of icons
Fasting during Lent and other seasons
Veneration of Mary as Theotokos (God-bearer)

Key Terms Explained

A quick glossary to help you understand worship and life in the Eastern Orthodox tradition.

Divine Liturgy: The main Orthodox service of worship and Holy Communion.
Icon: A sacred image of Christ, the Theotokos or a saint, venerated in worship.
Iconostasis: The screen of icons separating the sanctuary from the nave.
Theotokos: A title for the Virgin Mary meaning "God-bearer".
Pascha: The Orthodox name for Easter, the feast of feasts.
Patriarch: A senior bishop leading one of the historic Orthodox churches.

Notable facts

There are around 220 million Orthodox Christians worldwide.
The Orthodox Church separated from Rome in the Great Schism of 1054.
Worshippers traditionally stand throughout the Divine Liturgy, which can last well over an hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there icons everywhere?

Icons are sacred images of Christ, Mary and the saints. Orthodox Christians do not worship them but venerate them as windows into heaven and reminders of the communion of saints.

Why do you stand for so long?

Standing is the traditional posture of prayer in the Orthodox Church, expressing respect and active participation. Most churches have seating around the walls for those who need it.