On the Coptic-Armenian-Ethiopian Churches

Orthodox Christians frequently complain about the way that our popular culture categorizes Christians as either "Catholic" or "Protestant."  We hasten to point out that a third category (Orthodox) also exists.  Yet, in using three categories, we do a disservice to the fourth "branch" of Christianity: the non-Chalcedonian churhces.  These are the churches that reject the Council of Chalcedon, in 451 AD, which defined the Church's current language about the Incarnation.

I intend, at some point, to post some material from different scholars about the controversial actions of that council.  In the mean time, I want to offer an overview for Orthodox Christians on what it is that separates our communion from the largest of the non-Chalcedonian communions: the Copts.  The Coptic communion, which includes Armenians, Ethiopians and some Syrians, holds around 50 to 60 million members (about 60% as large as the worldwide Anglican communion).  The majority of these (around 40 million) are Ethiopian.  Of ALL the non-Orthodox communions, they are the closest to us and the most likely to be reunited to Orthodoxy within our lifetimes. 

What is it that still separates us?  Continue reading!