GrecoCatholic

Greco-Catholic refers to Catholic Christians who follow the Byzantine rite, maintaining liturgical, theological, and devotional practices rooted in the Eastern Christian tradition. These churches are in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, recognizing the authority of the Pope while preserving their distinctive liturgical and cultural heritage.

The term "Greco-Catholic" generally pertains to churches of the Greek or Byzantine tradition. Notable among them are the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, the Melkite Greek Catholic Church, and the Greek Catholic Churches of Romania, Bulgaria, and Slovakia. These churches emerged from historical circumstances where Eastern Christians sought communion with Rome while retaining their liturgical rites and customs, especially after periods of conflict and suppression by local or secular authorities.

Greco-Catholic churches use the Byzantine liturgical tradition, including the celebration of the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom, and often employ local languages in worship. They emphasize the continuation of Eastern theological traditions, including the veneration of icons, the use of chant, and a distinctive ecclesiastical hierarchy.

These churches play an important role in promoting ecumenical dialogue and preserving the cultural identities within the broader Catholic community. Despite differences in liturgy and administration from the Latin Rite, Greco-Catholic churches adhere to the doctrines and sacraments of the Catholic Church, including the authority of the Pope.

Overall, Greco-Catholic churches serve as a bridge between Eastern Christian traditions and Western Catholic unity, enriching the diversity within global Catholicism while maintaining their unique eastern Christian identity.