Eastern Orthodox

The division of Christianity to East and West stemmed from similar political and cultural differences that divided the Roman Empire shortly after the first Millennium. Claims over who was the universal pope and differences in belief over the origin of the Holy Spirit, combined with a political struggle between the Rome in the west and Constantinople in the east divided the church in what is referred to as the "Great Schism". The Catholic Pope excommunicated the Patriarch of Constantinople and in return Latin churches were closed in the East. The church remained divided; however, in 1965 Pope Paul VI attempted to bring the churches closer together by formally lifting the excommunication of the Patriarch of Constantinople.

The Eastern Orthodox church is organized similarly to the Catholic church except for the power held by its leader, the Patriarch of Constantinople. While the Patriarch is the head of the church he does not have the same powers given to the Pope. Each region of the Orthodox church is governed by a bishop. Major Orthodox Church's include the Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, and other churches mostly spread throughout the Balkan states and others in Jerusalem and America.

The beliefs of the Eastern Orthodox are founded on Christian principles of the Bible, the Old Testament and New Testament, and the Holy Trinity; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Freewill is a key concept in Christianity and arguably more prevalent in the Orthodox faith. Catholics and Protestants ask for forgiveness for the sin of Adam and Eve almost in a legal fashion; however, Eastern Orthodox Christians receive communion with God and participate in His divine life. The complete communion with God means freedom for humans to not be God but act as God, and are most human when living without sin.

Orthodox religion survived Muslim influence in Turkey, the Balkans, and the Middle East throughout history largely because of its highly liturgical worship practices and lack of reformations. Examples of this are the Greek language used in prayer, traditional music, and traditional dress.