THE HOLY AND GREAT COUNCIL OF THE ORTHODOXY ACCORDING TO REV. PROF. LIVIU STAN

Abstract

Synodality is the fundamental feature of the Orthodox Church. Reverend Prof. Liviu Stan defined the synod principle as the order of Church management through councils, both by hierarchical councils and through joint councils. The highest manifestation of Church synodality is the ecumenical council which, paradoxically, is not legally necessary and has not been institutionalized by the Church, so it has the character of charism. The special property of Ecumenical Council was established only by its so-called reception of the whole Church, reception which has also acquired the charism of infallibility. The meeting of a Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox is the natural expression that shows synodality in the Orthodox Church, which must operate at all times and in all places. It becomes officially recognized only by the reception process, which is spontaneous and quiet, and cannot be estimated over linear time. The opinions during the reception process cannot be hurried or stopped, compelled or ignored. The decisions of a Holy and Great Panorthodox Council can be perceived as a whole, can be perceived only in part, or may be corrected at a later meeting.