Introducing the Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East

 The Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate is based in Antioch and traces its lineage back to the Church of Antioch and the theological school of thought that resided there in the first several centuries of the common era. There are about 1.4 million members of this church who reside all over the world, but mainly in Syria. According to the Church's tradition, Peter founded the Holy See of Antioch in 37 AD. Peter presided over the Antioch Church until his journey to Rome. Missionaries from the church traveled all over the world to India, China, and Mongolia among others. The church grew increasingly and reached its height in the 13th century. However, it suffered greatly at the hands of Mongol invaders in the 14th century. It furthered suffered persecution under the Ottoman Turks. After centuries of the Holy Seat being vacant, the Catholicate of the Syrian Church of the East was re-established in 1965 in India. Throughout the years, the Holy Seat has moved from India and eventually resided once again in Syria, this time in Damascus. 

The Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate rejects the Council of Chalcedon for the same reasons as many other Oriental Orthodox churches, like the Copts and Armenians. This church venerates the saints and prays for the dead much like Eastern Orthodox churches. Also, the church uses the seven sacraments that many other churches use, such as the Copts, Roman Catholics, and Eastern Orthodox.

An interesting thing to note is that the worship services are performed using Syriac Aramaic as the liturgical language. What language did Jesus speak? You guessed it, Aramaic! This church uses the language which is closest to Aramaic in the modern day. I find that so fascinating and I would love to attend a church service to hear the beautiful liturgy. Like the Coptic Church, the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate values monasticism greatly. Many monasteries are still ran by the church and monastics are greatly revered (WCC). 

On another note, I believe it is important as Christians to recognize the horrors that this church has encountered due to the Syrian Civil War. Extremists have demolished churches and persecuted believers. Unfortunately, things have only grown worse over the years as Christians in Syria continue to be persecuted, lack water and food, and have been forced to abandon their homes. If this is an issue that ignites your passions please consider giving money to charities doing good work in Syria. Lutheran World Relief is a great charity that does good work in Syria. Peace!


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