ORTHODOXY
By: Frank Teichert, Curator – DITSONG: National Museum of Cultural History
What is Orthodoxy?
Orthodoxy generally refers to adherence to accepted and traditional beliefs, especially in religion. In a Christian context, Orthodoxy is often associated with the Eastern Orthodox Church, which follows the doctrines established by the early ecumenical councils and the Nicene Creed.
The Nicene Creed on the wall of an Orthodox Church.
The Nicene Creed, also known as the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed, is a statement of the orthodox faith of the early Christian church in opposition to certain heresies, especially Arianism. These heresies, which disturbed the church during the fourth century, concerned the doctrine of the trinity and of the person of Christ. Both the Greek (Eastern) and the Latin (Western) church held this creed in honour, though with one important difference; the Western church insisted on the inclusion of the phrase “and the Son” in the article on the procession of the Holy Spirit. This phrase still is rejected by the Eastern Orthodox church.
The term “Orthodox” comes from the Greek word “orthodoxía,” meaning “correct opinion” or “right belief”. The Eastern Orthodox Church, which split from the Roman Catholic Church in the Great Schism of 1054, emphasizes the continuity of the faith as handed down by the apostles and early church fathers.
Greek Orthodox Monastery in Greece.
Orthodoxy is also used in other religious contexts, such as Orthodox Judaism, which strictly adheres to traditional Jewish laws and customs. In Islam, Sunni Islam is sometimes referred to as “Orthodox Islam” due to its adherence to traditional interpretations of the Quran and Hadith.
Orthodox Christianity is a branch within the broader Christian faith, and while it shares many core beliefs with other Christian denominations, there are several key differences:
Authority and Tradition
Orthodox Christianity places a strong emphasis on the authority of the church and its traditions, which are seen as a continuation of the teachings of the apostles and early church fathers.
Other Christian Denominations (like Protestantism) may place more emphasis on individual interpretations of the Bible and less on church tradition.
Sacraments and Worship
Orthodox Christians have a strong focus on the sacraments (or “mysteries”), such as the Eucharist, baptism, and confession. Their worship is highly liturgical, involving rituals, chants, and the use of icons.
Painting of Jesus Christ.
Other Christians may have different practices regarding sacraments and worship styles. For example, Protestant services are often less formal and may not include the same level of ritual or use of icons.
Theology and Beliefs
Orthodox Christianity emphasizes the concept of theosis, which is the process of becoming more like God through cooperation with divine grace.
An example of a Greek or Russian Orthodox Bible.
Other Christian Denominations may focus more on salvation through faith alone and the personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Church Structure
Orthodox Churches are organized into autocephalous (self-governing) bodies, each led by a bishop or patriarch. They do not have a single central authority like the Pope in Roman Catholicism.
Orthodox Priests with Patriarch.
Other Christian Denominations may have different structures, such as the hierarchical structure of the Roman Catholic Church or the more decentralized organization of many Protestant churches.
Icons and Religious Art
Orthodox Christianity uses icons extensively in worship and personal devotion. Icons are considered windows to the divine and are venerated, not worshipped.
Mother and Child Icon
Other Christians may use religious art differently. For example, many Protestant denominations avoid the use of icons and religious images in worship.
The History of the Greek Orthodox Church in South Africa
The history of the Greek Orthodox Church in South Africa is quite fascinating. The first Greek Orthodox communities were established by Greek immigrants in the early 20th century. These pioneers laid the foundations for the church in cities like Cape Town, Pretoria, and Johannesburg.
One of the most notable landmarks is the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St George in Cape Town. Built between 1903 and 1904, it is considered the oldest Greek Orthodox church in Africa. The cathedral, known for its Neoclassical architecture and Byzantine-style frescoes, was elevated to cathedral status in 1968.
Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St George
In Johannesburg, the Cathedral of Saints Constantine and Helen, designed by architect Hermann Kallenbach and built in 1912, is another significant site. This cathedral is a protected heritage site and serves as a central place of worship for the Greek Orthodox community in the region.
Cathedral of Saints Constantine and Helen
The Greek Orthodox Church in South Africa falls under the jurisdiction of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa, with the Holy Metropolis of Johannesburg and Pretoria overseeing the parishes and missions in the region.
Expansion and Growth
The Greek Orthodox Church in South Africa has grown significantly since its early days. The influx of Greek immigrants during the 20th century led to the establishment of more parishes and the construction of additional churches. These communities not only served as places of worship but also as cultural hubs where Greek traditions and language were preserved.
Key Figures
Several key figures have played a crucial role in the development of the Greek Orthodox Church in South Africa. One notable figure is Archbishop Ioannis, who served as the head of the church in the region for many years. His leadership and vision were instrumental in expanding the church’s reach and influence.
Education and Philanthropy
The Greek Orthodox Church has also been active in education and philanthropy. Many Greek Orthodox schools were established to provide education to the children of Greek immigrants. Additionally, the church has been involved in various charitable activities, supporting both the Greek community and the broader South African society.
Cultural Contributions
The Greek Orthodox Church has made significant cultural contributions to South Africa. Festivals such as the annual Greek Orthodox Easter celebrations are major events that attract not only the Greek community but also people from diverse backgrounds. These events showcase Greek music, dance, and cuisine, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
Modern Developments
In recent years, the Greek Orthodox Church in South Africa has continued to evolve. Modern challenges such as globalization and changing demographics have prompted the church to adapt while maintaining its core traditions and values. Efforts to engage younger generations and integrate more into the broader South African context are ongoing.
The History of the Russian Orthodox Church in South Africa
The Russian Orthodox Church’s presence in South Africa is a testament to the global reach of Orthodoxy and the enduring faith of the Russian diaspora. Its history in the region reflects broader geopolitical movements and the migration patterns of Russians in the 20th and 21st centuries.
Early Beginnings: Pre-Revolutionary Connections
The first contacts between the Russian Orthodox Church and South Africa can be traced back to the late 19th century, although they were sporadic and largely informal. Russian sailors and travellers passing through Cape Town or Durban occasionally sought the services of Orthodox clergy, though there was no established community or church at the time.
Russian Orthodox Church in Moscow.
The Impact of the Russian Revolution
The Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent Civil War led to a significant wave of Russian emigration. Many Russians fleeing the turmoil of the Bolshevik takeover settled in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas. While South Africa was not a primary destination, a small number of Russian émigrés did arrive, bringing their Orthodox faith with them. However, the community remained small, and there was no formal establishment of the Russian Orthodox Church during this period.
The Post-World War II Period
After World War II, South Africa experienced another influx of Russian immigrants, many of whom were displaced persons and refugees from war-torn Europe. During this time, the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) began to take a more active role in establishing parishes for the Russian diaspora globally, including in South Africa. The first Russian Orthodox parish was established in Johannesburg in the late 1940s, serving as a spiritual home for the growing community of Russian Orthodox Christians.
Growth and Challenges During Apartheid
The Russian Orthodox Church in South Africa grew slowly during the apartheid era, facing numerous challenges. The strict racial segregation policies of the apartheid government complicated the establishment of parishes, as Orthodox Christianity attracted not only Russian émigrés but also a small number of local converts, both black and white. The church had to navigate the complex social and political landscape of South Africa while maintaining its spiritual mission.
Despite these challenges, the church continued to serve its community, offering liturgical services, sacraments, and pastoral care. The Russian Orthodox Church in South Africa also maintained ties with the broader Orthodox world, including the Patriarchate of Moscow and ROCOR.
Post-Apartheid and Modern Developments
The end of apartheid in 1994 brought significant changes to South Africa, including increased immigration and greater religious freedom. The Russian Orthodox Church experienced renewed growth during this period, with more immigrants from Russia and other former Soviet states settling in South Africa. The church expanded its presence, establishing additional parishes in cities such as Cape Town and Pretoria.
In the 21st century, the Russian Orthodox Church in South Africa continues to serve the spiritual needs of both the Russian diaspora and local converts. The church remains a vital part of the broader Orthodox Christian presence in the country, contributing to South Africa’s religious diversity. It has also become a cultural hub for the Russian-speaking community, offering a space for preserving Russian language, traditions, and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
The Greek Orthodox and Russian Orthodox Churches are both part of the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition, sharing the same core beliefs and practices. However, there are some differences influenced by their unique historical, cultural, and administrative contexts:
Historical and Cultural Context
Greek Orthodox Church: Deeply intertwined with the history of the Byzantine Empire, the Greek Orthodox Church played a significant role in preserving Christian theology and Hellenic culture, especially after the fall of Constantinople in 1453.
Russian Orthodox Church: The Christianization of Kievan Rus’ in 988 marked the beginning of Russian Orthodoxy. Over centuries, the Russian Church gained autonomy, culminating in the establishment of the autocephalous Russian Orthodox Church in the 15th century.
Administrative Structure
Greek Orthodox Church: While autocephalous (self-governing), it accords a place of honor to the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople.
Russian Orthodox Church: Also autocephalous, it is led by its own Patriarch, emphasizing its independence.
Liturgical Practices
There are some differences in liturgical practices, such as the rite of proskomedia (a preparatory part of the Liturgy), which varies between the Greek and Russian traditions.
Despite these differences, both churches maintain the same fundamental theological beliefs and liturgical framework, reflecting the unity of the Orthodox Christian faith.
