ORTHODOX CHURCH:
also termed the "Eastern" "Greek or "Greco-Russian
Church." A family of churches which are situated mainly in eastern Europe. Each
member Church is independent in its internal administration but share the same FAITH in
communion with other churches of the same tradition. All Orthodox churches acknowledge the
honorary primacy of the PATRIARCH of CONSTANTINOPLE and reject the claims of the POPE.
Orthodox churches are distinguished by their rich LITURGICAL TRADITION and use of IKONS in
worship. In recent years they have experienced rapid growth in North America.
