Eastern Churches

Union with Rome

Churches of the East in union with Rome (the Western Church), but not of the Roman rite, with their own liturgical, theological, and administrative traditions — such as those of the Byzantine, Alexandrian or Coptic, Syriac, Armenian, Maronite, and Chaldean rites. The variety of particular churches with distinctive traditions witnesses to the catholicity of the one Church of Christ, which takes root in distinct cultures (CCC 1202–1203; cf. 835).

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Eastern Churches part of the Catholic Church? Yes, Eastern Churches (like the Byzantine or Maronite rites) are in full union with Rome, maintaining their own distinctive liturgical and theological traditions.