Customer Reviews

Eastern Christianity: The Byzantine Tradition

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I can't believe that this wonderful book has never been reviewed before. So I'm glad to have the opportunity to say something about it, even if it is about six years too late.
It is still the best rapid-access book on Eastern Christianity. First published in Australia in 1988, with reprints in 1989 and 1991, a revised updated version was published in the USA by Eastern Christian Publications. It very sensibly begins with a historical outline of events leading up to what the author describes as "the greatest and saddest disaster ever to befall mankind" - the separation of the Western and Eastern Churches. The author lovingly gives an excellent perspective on Byzantine or Eastern Christianity. Breathing the spirit of the East, the theology and spirituality of Eastern Christianity are beautifully explained, in an economical form. It offers insights into the current state of affairs of various Eastern Churches, both Orthodox and Catholic. It gives helpful hints for a Catholic interested in attending an Eastern/Orthodox service, as well as addressing the major players (the Roman, Orthodox and non-Chalcedonian Churches)in their "Dialogue of Love". An important, scholarly, yet highly readable book, it is an impressive step on the road to reunification. My only criticism (to the publisher) is that the cartographic illustrations could be better reproduced. Highly recommended indeed!