What is the official name of the Assyrian Church of the East?

The official name of the Assyrian Church of the East is the Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian Church of the East. It was known as the Church of the East until 1976, when it was renamed the Assyrian Church of the East.

What is the primary liturgical language of the Assyrian Church of the East?

The primary liturgical language of the Assyrian Church of the East is Classical Syriac, which is a dialect of Eastern Aramaic. This language is used in their divine liturgy.

To which branch of Christianity does the Assyrian Church of the East belong?

The Assyrian Church of the East belongs to the eastern branch of Syriac Christianity. It follows the traditional Christology and ecclesiology of the historical Church of the East.

Where is the headquarters of the Assyrian Church of the East located?

The headquarters of the Assyrian Church of the East is officially located in Ankawa, Erbil, within the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This city serves as the current seat of the Patriarchate.

What is the estimated membership of the Assyrian Church of the East as of recent data?

As of 2021, the Assyrian Church of the East has an estimated membership of over 400,000 adherents. Some sources suggest the number could be as high as 500,000.

What is the significance of the Divine Liturgy of Saints Addai and Mari for the Assyrian Church of the East?

The Divine Liturgy of Saints Addai and Mari is the liturgy employed by the Assyrian Church of the East. This liturgy belongs to the East Syriac Rite and is a core part of their worship and tradition.

What historical church does the Assyrian Church of the East claim continuity with?

The Assyrian Church of the East claims continuity with the historical Church of the East. This ancient church traces its origins back to the first century AD in Assyria and Upper Mesopotamia.

Is the Assyrian Church of the East in communion with the Catholic, Oriental Orthodox, or Eastern Orthodox churches?

No, the Assyrian Church of the East is not in communion with the Catholic, Oriental Orthodox, or Eastern Orthodox churches. It maintains its distinct ecclesiastical and theological identity.

Which church is the pro-Catholic branch that emerged from the historical Church of the East?

The Chaldean Catholic Church is the pro-Catholic branch that consolidated from various factions committed to union with the Catholic Church between the 16th and 19th centuries.

Where does the Assyrian Church of the East have a presence?

The Assyrian Church of the East has a presence in Western Asia, India, North America, Oceania, and Europe, including the Caucasus and Russia. Its members are spread across various global diaspora communities.

When was the Church of the East officially renamed the Assyrian Church of the East?

The Church of the East was officially renamed the Assyrian Church of the East in 1976. This change reflected a desire to emphasize its Assyrian heritage.

What was the historical region encompassed by the original Church of the East?

The original area of the Church of the East encompassed regions corresponding roughly to ancient Assyria, including parts of modern-day Iraq, southeastern Turkey, northeastern Syria, and northwestern Iran.

Who are considered the founding apostles of the Church of the East?

The Church of the East considers its founders to be Thomas the Apostle, Addai of Edessa, and Bartholomew the Apostle. They are credited with establishing the church in the first century AD.

What were the main issues that led to schisms within the Church of the East starting in the 16th century?

Starting in the mid-16th century, schisms arose due to internal dissent over issues such as hereditary succession to the patriarchal throne and the question of union with the Catholic Church.

What event marked the beginning of the schism that led to the Chaldean Catholic Church?

The schism began around 1552 with the organization of a pro-Catholic party led by Yohannan Sulaqa, who sought confirmation from the Pope in Rome, leading to the establishment of a separate patriarchal line.

What was the significance of the Eliya line of patriarchs?

The Eliya line, originating from the patriarch Eliya (VI) in the late 16th century, preserved the traditional Christology and ecclesiastical independence of the Church of the East, resisting union with the Catholic Church.

What was the significance of the Shimun line of patriarchs?

The Shimun line, which began with Yohannan Sulaqa, initially had ties with the Catholic Church. However, under Patriarch Shimun XIII Dinkha, communion with Rome was definitively broken in the late 17th century, solidifying its traditionalist stance.

How did the Eliya and Shimun lines of patriarchs eventually consolidate?

The Eliya line ended in 1804, and its branch did not elect a new patriarch. This allowed the Shimun line's patriarch, Shimun XVI Yohannan, to become the sole primate, reuniting the traditionalist branches under the name 'Assyrian Church of the East'.

What major event significantly impacted the Assyrian Church of the East in the early 20th century?

The Assyrian genocide, also known as Sayfo, which occurred during World War I, severely impacted the church. Many Assyrians, including clergy and the patriarch Shimun XIX Benyamin, were killed, and their historical See at Qodchanis was destroyed.

What led Patriarch Shimun XXI Eshai to leave the traditional homeland?

Following the end of the British mandate in Iraq in 1933 and a massacre of Assyrian civilians at Simele, Patriarch Shimun XXI Eshai was forced to take refuge in Cyprus. He later moved to Chicago, USA.

What significant liturgical changes were decreed by Patriarch Shimun XXI Eshai in 1964?

In 1964, Patriarch Shimun XXI Eshai decreed liturgical reforms, including the adoption of the Gregorian calendar and the shortening of Lent. These changes contributed to a schism within the church.

What was the outcome of the schism initiated by traditionalists in 1968?

The schism in 1968 led to the formation of the Ancient Church of the East, based in Baghdad, Iraq, when traditionalists elected Thoma Darmo as a rival patriarch to Shimun XXI Eshai.

What was the significance of the 1994 Common Christological Declaration?

The 1994 Common Christological Declaration, signed by Patriarch Dinkha IV and Pope John Paul II, recognized the legitimacy of each other's titles for Mary, mother of Jesus, and improved relations between the Assyrian Church of the East and the Chaldean Catholic Church.

What is the Assyrian Church of the East's stance on icons?

The Assyrian Church of the East does not traditionally make use of icons, and its places of worship have simple interiors. This practice is attributed to the influence of Islam, which historically discouraged religious imagery.

What theological tradition influences the Christology of the Assyrian Church of the East?

The Christology of the Assyrian Church of the East is rooted in the Antiochene theological tradition, particularly influenced by theologians like Diodorus of Tarsus and Theodore of Mopsuestia.

Which ecumenical councils does the Assyrian Church of the East recognize?

The Assyrian Church of the East recognizes the first two ecumenical councils: the First Council of Nicaea (325 AD) and the First Council of Constantinople (381 AD).

What is the Assyrian Church of the East's position on the Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon?

The Assyrian Church of the East does not accept the doctrinal definitions established at the Council of Ephesus (431 AD) and the Council of Chalcedon (451 AD). It adheres to the earlier Christology of the Church of the East.

What is the meaning of the term 'Nestorian' as applied to the Church of the East?

The term 'Nestorian' is often applied to the Church of the East's Christology, which has roots in the Antiochene tradition and differs from the definitions of Ephesus and Chalcedon. However, the church itself claims its doctrines are essentially Orthodox and disputes the precise meaning and application of the term 'Nestorian'.

What are the three anaphoras used in the East Syriac Rite?

The East Syriac Rite, used by the Assyrian Church of the East, includes three anaphoras attributed to Saints Addai and Mari, Theodore of Mopsuestia, and Nestorius.

How did the spread of Islam influence the church's use of iconography?

The spread of Islam, which generally forbade depictions of religious figures, led the Church of the East to abandon the use of icons, resulting in simpler church interiors and homes. This was a concession to the prevailing cultural and religious environment.

What evidence suggests that the Church of the East historically used figurative representations?

Evidence such as illustrated manuscripts from the 13th century (like the Peshitta Gospel book) and a 6th-century stucco figure found in Seleucia-Ctesiphon indicates that the Church of the East did use figurative representations before the practice became less common.

What is the current status of the Patriarchal See regarding its location?

Church leaders have proposed moving the Patriarchal See from Chicago back to Erbil, Iraq. This reflects a desire to return the center of the church to its historical homeland.

Who is the current Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East?

The current Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East is Mar Awa III, who was consecrated in September 2021.

What is the significance of the Anaphora of Addai and Mari in ecumenical discussions?

The Anaphora of Addai and Mari, dating to apostolic times, has been a subject of ecumenical discussion due to its unique structure. In 2001, the Catholic Church declared it a valid prayer of consecration for the Eucharist.

What is the approximate percentage of Assyrian people who belong to the Assyrian Church of the East?

According to scholar James Minahan, approximately 19% of the Assyrian people belong to the Assyrian Church of the East.

What was the role of the Rabban Hormizd Monastery in the church's history?

The Rabban Hormizd Monastery served as the residence for patriarchs of the Eliya line for centuries. It was later attacked and looted by Ottoman Turks in 1743 and eventually passed to the Chaldean Catholics.

What is the meaning of 'ACOE' as an abbreviation?

ACOE is the abbreviation for the Assyrian Church of the East, officially known as the Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian Church of the East.

What is the theological orientation of the Assyrian Church of the East?

The Assyrian Church of the East is classified as having a Syriac orientation and follows East Syriac theology.

When was the Chaldean Syrian Church absorbed by the Assyrian Church of the East?

The Chaldean Syrian Church was absorbed by the Assyrian Church of the East in 1907. This church encompasses communities in India and the Persian Gulf.

What were the key separations that occurred from the historical Church of the East?

The key separations include the Chaldean Catholic Church in 1830 and the Ancient Church of the East in 1968. These events reflect divisions over doctrine, practice, and leadership.

What is the significance of the name 'Assyrian' in the church's title?

The inclusion of 'Assyrian' in the church's title emphasizes its connection to the Assyrian people and their historical heritage, distinguishing it from other churches that also trace their lineage to the Church of the East.

What role did Franciscan missionaries play in the 16th-century schism?

Franciscan missionaries played an active role in organizing opposition to the traditional patriarch and supported Yohannan Sulaqa in his move to Rome, which ultimately led to the schism and the formation of the Chaldean Catholic Church.

How did the hereditary succession of patriarchs affect the church's relationship with Rome?

The practice of hereditary succession, introduced in the Shimun line, was not acceptable to Rome and contributed to the loosening of ties with the Catholic Church over time, eventually leading to a definitive break.

What challenges did Assyrian communities face in the Ottoman Empire during the 18th century?

Assyrian communities faced constant danger due to conflicts between the Ottoman and Persian empires, as well as attacks from local Kurdish warlords who often targeted Christian communities and monasteries, sometimes with Ottoman support.

What was the impact of the 1843 hostilities on Patriarch Shimun XVII Abraham?

During the hostilities initiated by Kurdish warlords in 1843, which resulted in the deaths of 10,000 Assyrians, Patriarch Shimun XVII Abraham was forced to seek temporary refuge in Mosul.

What is the historical significance of the Simele massacre for the Assyrian Church of the East?

The Simele massacre of Assyrian civilians by the Iraqi Army in 1933 led to Patriarch Shimun XXI Eshai being forced into exile, marking a significant disruption in the church's leadership and its connection to its homeland.

What was the primary focus of Patriarch Dinkha IV's tenure?

Patriarch Dinkha IV's tenure was largely focused on ministering to the Assyrian diaspora community and engaging in ecumenical efforts to strengthen relations with other Christian churches.

What is the current status of the Assyrian Church of the East's relationship with the Chaldean Catholic Church?

Following the 1994 Common Christological Declaration and subsequent dialogue, relations between the Assyrian Church of the East and the Chaldean Catholic Church have improved, including guidelines for mutual admission to the Eucharist.

What is the meaning of the term 'qnome' in the context of Babai the Great's Christology?

In Babai the Great's Christology, 'qnome' (Syriac for hypostases) refers to the two distinct natures within Christ that are unmingled but eternally united in the one person ('prosopon') of Christ.

Assyrian Church Of The East Wiki: The Assyrian Church: A Legacy of Faith

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Understanding the Assyrian Church of the East

Ancient Roots

The Assyrian Church of the East, officially the Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian Church of the East, is an ancient Eastern Syriac Christian denomination. It traces its lineage to the historical Church of the East, established by the Apostles Thomas, Addai, and Bartholomew in the 1st century AD within the regions of ancient Assyria and Upper Mesopotamia.

Global Presence

While its historical heartland encompasses parts of modern-day Iraq, Turkey, Syria, and Iran, the Church's presence has expanded significantly due to diaspora. Its patriarchal see is currently located in Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, with communities and dioceses established across Western Asia, India, North America, Oceania, and Europe.

Ecclesiastical Structure

The Church is governed by an episcopal polity, headed by the Catholicos-Patriarch. Its hierarchy includes metropolitan bishops and diocesan bishops who oversee various archdioceses and dioceses worldwide. The church adheres to the East Syriac Rite and uses Classical Syriac as its primary liturgical language.

A Journey Through Time

Apostolic Foundations

The Church of the East considers itself the continuation of the original Church of the East, founded by the Apostles Thomas, Addai of Edessa, and Bartholomew. Its early development occurred east of the Byzantine Empire, fostering a distinct theological tradition rooted in Antioch.

Schisms and Divisions

The Church experienced significant schisms, notably the Schism of 1552, which led to the formation of pro-Catholic and traditionalist branches. These divisions, often centered around union with the Catholic Church and hereditary succession, eventually solidified into distinct lines, including the Chaldean Catholic Church and the continuing Assyrian Church of the East.

20th Century Trials

The 20th century brought immense challenges, including the devastating Assyrian Genocide during World War I, which severely impacted the Church's traditional heartland and led to widespread displacement. The subsequent political instability and diaspora further shaped the Church's structure and global distribution.

Patriarchal Succession

The Church has seen numerous patriarchs, with notable figures like Shimun XXI Eshai, Dinkha IV, Gewargis III, and the current Catholicos-Patriarch Mar Awa III. The succession has evolved, moving from hereditary lines to synodal election, reflecting the Church's adaptation to modern challenges and its global dispersion.

Core Tenets and Theology

Trinitarian Faith

The Assyrian Church of the East adheres to Trinitarian doctrines, affirming the Nicene Creed and the eternal procession of the Holy Spirit from the Father. It recognizes the first two Ecumenical Councils: Nicaea (325 AD) and Constantinople (381 AD).

Christological Heritage

Theologically, the Church follows the traditional Christology of the Church of the East, rooted in the Antiochene tradition. While often labeled "Nestorian," the Church maintains that its doctrines are essentially Orthodox, emphasizing Christ's humanity and the reality of his moral choices, while engaging in dialogue to clarify Christological terminology.

Ecumenical Dialogue

Significant ecumenical efforts have been made, notably the "Common Christological Declaration" signed with the Catholic Church in 1994. This marked a step towards mutual understanding and improved relations, including guidelines for shared Eucharistic admission with the Chaldean Catholic Church.

Sacred Rites and Language

East Syriac Rite

The Church employs the East Syriac Rite, utilizing Classical Syriac, an Eastern Aramaic dialect, as its primary liturgical language. The Divine Liturgy of Saints Addai and Mari is central, featuring three ancient anaphoras attributed to Addai and Mari, Theodore of Mopsuestia, and Nestorius.

Visual Traditions

Simplicity and Symbolism

Traditionally, the Assyrian Church of the East emphasizes simplicity in its places of worship and home practices. While historical manuscripts show the use of illustrations, the Church generally avoids icons, adhering to a more aniconic tradition, partly influenced by the historical context of Islamic cultural regions. The Christian cross, typically without a corpus, is a prominent symbol displayed in homes.

Structure and Governance

Hierarchical Framework

The Church operates under an episcopal polity, with a clear hierarchy of Catholicos-Patriarch, Metropolitan Bishops, and Diocesan Bishops. These leaders oversee distinct archdioceses and dioceses, ensuring the Church's administration across its global communities.

Global Dioceses

The Church's organizational structure reflects its worldwide diaspora. Key archdioceses and dioceses are established in regions such as Australia, Syria, India, Iran, the United States, Canada, and Europe, each serving significant Assyrian Christian populations.

The Holy Synod

The Holy Synod, composed of bishops and led by the Catholicos-Patriarch, serves as the supreme governing body. It convenes to address matters of doctrine, administration, and the overall spiritual welfare of the Church, with current members representing various global regions.

Inter-Church Relations

Dialogue and Recognition

The Assyrian Church of the East engages in ecumenical relations with various Christian traditions. Notable dialogues include those with the Catholic Church, leading to shared declarations on Christology and guidelines for Eucharistic admission. Its participation in broader ecumenical councils is an ongoing aspect of its engagement with the wider Christian world.

Historical Divisions

Branching Traditions

Throughout its history, the Church of the East has seen several significant schisms. These divisions often stemmed from disputes over union with the Catholic Church, the nature of Christological definitions, and internal administrative matters, leading to the establishment of separate ecclesiastical bodies such as the Chaldean Catholic Church and the Ancient Church of the East.

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References

The Assyrian Church of the East allows communion with all baptised Christians. However, this open communion is not mutual with the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox or Oriental Orthodox churches.

Holy Apostolic Assyrian Church of the East Official News Website

"Nestorian". EncyclopÃ¦dia Britannica. Retrieved April 19, 2010.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Assyrian Church of the East Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

This content has been generated by an AI and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is based on publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date. The Assyrian Church of the East is a complex and ancient institution with a rich history and diverse traditions.

This is not a substitute for professional theological or historical consultation. Always refer to authoritative sources and consult with qualified experts for in-depth understanding. The creators of this page are not responsible for any inaccuracies or omissions, nor for any actions taken based on the information provided.

The Assyrian Church: A Legacy of Faith

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Understanding the Assyrian Church of the East ℹ️

⛪ Ancient Roots

🌍 Global Presence

👑 Ecclesiastical Structure

A Journey Through Time 📜

✝️ Apostolic Foundations

➗ Schisms and Divisions

⚔️ 20th Century Trials

👑 Patriarchal Succession

Core Tenets and Theology 📖

🕊️ Trinitarian Faith

🤔 Christological Heritage

🤝 Ecumenical Dialogue

Sacred Rites and Language 🕊️

🗣️ East Syriac Rite

Visual Traditions 👁️

🖼️ Simplicity and Symbolism

Structure and Governance 🏛️

🔗 Hierarchical Framework

🗺️ Global Dioceses

🤝 The Holy Synod

Inter-Church Relations 🤝

💬 Dialogue and Recognition

Historical Divisions 💔

⚖️ Branching Traditions

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Important Considerations ⚠️

📜 Disclaimer

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Understanding the Assyrian Church of the East

Ancient Roots

Global Presence

Ecclesiastical Structure

A Journey Through Time

Apostolic Foundations

Schisms and Divisions

20th Century Trials

Patriarchal Succession

Core Tenets and Theology

Trinitarian Faith

Christological Heritage

Ecumenical Dialogue

Sacred Rites and Language

East Syriac Rite

Visual Traditions

Simplicity and Symbolism

Structure and Governance

Hierarchical Framework

Global Dioceses

The Holy Synod

Inter-Church Relations

Dialogue and Recognition

Historical Divisions

Branching Traditions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Considerations

Disclaimer