Reception of the clergy ordained by the heterodox in the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch with special reference to the Anglican Holy Orders

Severus Roger  AKHRASS

Severus Roger AKHRASS Catholic University of Paris

Keywords: Syriac Orthodox Church, Holy orders, Heterodox congregations, Anglican holy orders, Baptism recognition, Oikonomia, Akribeia, Church councils, Heterics and schismatics

Abstract

The Syriac Orthodox Church’s recognition of heterodox sacraments hinges on the validity of their baptism. Historically, oikonomia (ecclesiastical flexibility) allowed for accepting certain sacraments from heretical groups, while akribeia (strict adherence to canon law) was less common. Councils and Fathers distinguished between heretics, schismatics, and unlawful groups, applying these principles variably. Modernly, the Church recognizes Catholic and Byzantine baptisms but not Anglican holy orders due to doctrinal differences. Recent shifts in Anglicanism, perceived as deviations from biblical and apostolic traditions, may prompt a return to akribeia, reconsidering Anglican baptism recognition. Thus, while oikonomia historically guided heterodox sacrament acceptance, increasing theological divergence within Anglicanism could lead to a stricter approach, affecting future Anglican baptism recognition.

Author Biography

Severus Roger AKHRASS, Catholic University of Paris

Archevêque, vicaire patriarcal pour les études syriaques. Docteur en patristique de l'Université catholique de Paris (2013). Directeur du département des études syriaques au Patriarcat syriaque orthodoxe. Directeur exécutif du Journal patriarcal syriaque orthodoxe (depuis 2015).