The Eastern Orthodox Church

An engaging, sophisticated yet accessible, account of the Orthodox Church-its self-understanding, theology, sacramental life, and history-from the time of the New Testament through its long pilgrimage in the East and more recently into the West. One of the best introductions available. -John Behr, author of The Mystery of Christ This is a rich, fascinating history, from the beginning of Christianity to Patristics and contemporary Orthodoxy, by an outstanding scholar. It includes inspiring intellectual and mystical figures, importantly not only men, but also women, like Elisabeth Behr-Sigel. -Ilaria L.E. Ramelli, Durham University This clear, lively and erudite book, comprehensive in its brevity, is an honest and ultimately hopeful account of the living tradition of faith from the apostolic times to our day - a true salvation history. -The Rev'd Canon John McLuckie This book has the potential to become one of the most important introductions to the Eastern Christian world. -George E. Demacopoulos, author of Colonizing Christianity: Greek and Latin Religious Identity in the Era of the Fourth Crusade John McGuckin, one of today's most astute and prolific exponents of Eastern Orthodoxy, leads us into the deepest historical and theological roots of the Orthodox tradition. With fresh insight, McGuckin orients non-Orthodox readers to the internal life and practices of Orthodox churches and imaginatively projects the unique vocation of Orthodoxy in a postmodern world. -Paul M. Blowers, Milligan University