Most of us know about the so-called Great Schism, which tragically divided the Christian Church between East and West in 1054. But there was an earlier division in the 5th century, following the Fourth Ecumenical Council in Chalcedon in 451, which clarified how Jesus is both God and Man. Charges of heresy were brought, anathemas were proclaimed, and communion was broken. Which Churches did not accept the decision of the Council and the subsequent three Councils that followed? Today they are known as the Oriental Orthodox Churches, including the Coptic, Armenian, Syrian, Malankara, Eritrean, and Ethiopian Orthodox Churches.

What specifically separates us theologically?

Are there reasons to hope that we are closer to these believers than we thought?

What efforts have been made to better understand each other in recent decades?

On this special edition of Ancient Faith Today Live, Fr. Tom Soroka and John Maddex examine the causes of our division and consider what any path to unity might involve.

Panelists include:

Bishop (Dr.) Daniel (Findikyan)

Dr. Peter Bouteneff

Christine Chaillot

Dr. David Ford

Dr. Emmanuel Gergis

Dr. Chad Hatfield

Dr. Michael Ibrahim

Rev. Dr. Joseph Lucas

Dr. Sam Noble

Rev Dr. Timothy Thomas