The Principle of Synodality: Similarities and Differences Between Eastern Catholic and Orthodox Canon Law

Abstract

AbstractThe Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches do not only share a common liturgical, cultural, and spiritual heritage but also a legal one, which is rarely subject to academic discussion, although the congruent elements in their legal structures could constitute a vital component of ecumenism. This chapter addresses such a component on the example of the concept of synodality, which is firmly established in the Orthodox as well as the Eastern Catholic Churches. Subjects of comparison in particular are the Eastern Catholic Churches and the Russian Orthodox Church. The chapter applies a comparative approach and draws conclusions for the ecumenical dialogue. The main thesis is that the concept of synodality is not something “stolen,” but, rather, it is a mutually preserved and shared patrimony which forms a bridge between the both traditions.