Autocephalic

/ˌɔːtəsɛˈfælɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or describing an Eastern Orthodox church that is self-governing and has authority over its own leadership and decisions.

Etymology

From autocephalia + -ic (relating to). An adjectival form of the ecclesiastical term describing self-governing church status.

Kelly Says

The autocephalic status is super important in Eastern Orthodox politics—it affects which bishop answers to whom, which might sound boring but historically caused real divisions!

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