Chapter 11: Church History - Part 1: Early Christian Church and its Division

Question 1

During which period was the Christian Church first established in Jerusalem? (Apostolic Period, Apostolic Disciple Period, After the Edict of Milan)

Answer 1

Apostolic Period

Question 2

What did Nestorius claim regarding the title of Mary? (Theotokos, Christotokos, Logos, Abba)

Answer 2

Christotokos

Question 3

The Nicene Creed affirms that Jesus Christ is of the same ______ as the Father.

Answer 3

Substance

Question 4

In 1985, Sa’id Karim took the vow of a monk and entered into priesthood with the monastic name

Answer 4

Aphrem

Question 5

The heresy of Eutyches argued that after the Incarnation, only Christ’s ______ nature remained.

Answer 5

Divine

Question 6

Monophysitism argued that Jesus Christ had only one nature, with his ______ completely absorbed into his divinity.

Answer 6

Humanity

Question 7

The Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD addressed the debate around Christ’s two natures, affirming that Christ is fully ______ and fully divine.

Answer 7

Human

Question 8

True or False
The Apostolic Disciple Period saw the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and the growth of Christian leadership under followers of the apostles.

Answer 8

True

Question 9

True or False
Arius argued that Jesus Christ is of the same essence as God the Father.

Answer 9

False

Question 10

True or False
The Chalcedonian Creed affirmed that Jesus Christ had two natures: divine and human, without confusion or mixture.

Answer 10

True

Question 11

True or False
The Syrian Orthodox Church accepted the decisions of the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD.

Answer 11

False

Question 12

What was the name given to Sa’id Aphrem Karim, when he was consecrated as the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of the Eastern United States?

Answer 12

Answer: Mor Cyril / Mor Koorilos

Question 13

Answer in one or two sentences:
What was the heresy of Arius?

Answer 13

The heresy of Arius argued that Jesus Christ, though divine, was not of the same substance as God the Father, thereby challenging the concept of the Trinity.

Question 14

Answer in one or two sentences:
How did the First Ecumenical Council respond to the heresy of Arius?

Answer 14

The First Ecumenical Council convened in 325 AD at Nicaea condemned Arius’ view and declared that Jesus Christ is of the same essence (homoousios) as the Father.

Question 15

Answer in one or two sentences:
What was the Monophysite heresy, and how did the Council of Chalcedon address it?

Answer 15

The Monophysite heresy, promoted by Eutyches, claimed that after the Incarnation, Christ had only one nature, with his divine nature absorbing his human nature. The Council of Chalcedon addressed this by affirming that Christ has two complete and distinct natures, divine and human, co-existing in perfect unity without confusion or mixture.

Question 16

Answer in one or two sentences:
What theological issue was at the centre of the division caused by the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD?

Answer 16

The theological issue at the centre of the division was Christology, specifically the nature of Christ. The Council of Chalcedon affirmed that Christ has two natures, fully human and fully divine, which was rejected by the Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Question 17

Answer in a paragraph:
Explain the Edict of Milan?

Answer 17

• Emperor Constantine issued the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, granting religious freedom to Christians.
• Declared tolerance for Christianity, ending official persecution.
• Granted Christians freedom of worship, return of confiscated property, and equal rights.
• Mandated a day of rest on Sundays for all citizens, effectively elevating its status as a prayer day. - Led to rapid growth of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.

Question 18

Write an essay:
Discuss the impact of the Council of Nicaea (325 AD) on the development of early Christian theology and the role of the Nicene Creed in shaping the concept of the Trinity.

Answer 18

The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD had a profound impact on early Christian theology by addressing the Arian controversy, which questioned the divinity of Christ. The Nicene Creed, formulated at this council, established a foundational Christian doctrine by affirming that Jesus Christ is “of the same substance” as God the Father, thus solidifying the concept of the Trinity. The creed declared that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are equal and eternal, laying the groundwork for subsequent theological developments. It also unified the church against heresies that sought to undermine the full divinity of Christ, marking a critical moment in the establishment of orthodox Christian beliefs.

Question 19

Who established the ancient seat of the Patriarch of Antioch? (St. Paul, St. Peter, St. John, St. James)

Answer 19

St. Peter

Question 20

Which Church does celebrate Christmas on January 7? (Coptic, Armenian, Ethiopian)

Answer 20

Coptic

Question 21

In which year was Mor Ignatius Aphrem II born? (1945, 1955, 1965)

Answer 21

1965

Question 22

In which year was Mor Baselios Thomas I born? (1929, 1930, 1945)

Answer 22

1929

Question 23

What title was given to Fr. C.M. Thomas after being consecrated as a Metropolitan in 1974? (Mor Ignatius, Mor Dionysius, Mor Aphrem)

Answer 23

Mor Dionysius

Question 24

Which diocese did Mor Dionysius lead as Metropolitan? (Cochin, Kottayam, Angamaly)

Answer 24

Angamaly

Question 25

Which calendar does the Syriac community of the Syrian Orthodox Church follow to commemorate major Christ-events? (Julian Calendar, Gregorian Calendar, Jewish Calendar)

Answer 25

Julian Calendar

Question 26

Which Oriental Orthodox Church claims descent from Queen Sheba and King Solomon? (Armenian, Coptic, Ethiopian)

Answer 26

Ethiopian

Question 27

Which council’s decisions did the Syrian Orthodox Church refuse to accept? (Council of Nicaea, Council of Chalcedon, Council of Ephesus)

Answer 27

Council of Chalcedon

Question 28

The Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church’s liturgy is conducted in Syriac, Arabic, and __________.

Answer 28

Malayalam

Question 29

The __________ Church is credited with being the first nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD.

Answer 29

Armenian Orthodox

Question 30

The Coptic Church celebrates Christmas on __________, according to the Julian calendar.

Answer 30

January 7

Question 31

Mor Baselios Thomas I was born into the __________ family in Puthenkurish, Kerala.

Answer 31

Cheruvillil

Question 32

The Syrian Orthodox Church in Australia consists of two main communities: the Syriac Community and the __________ Community.

Answer 32

Jacobite

Question 33

The Holy Matrimony in the Jacobite Community includes the groom tying a __________ around the bride’s neck.

Answer 33

minnu / a small cross

Question 34

The Akhila Malankara Suvishesha Mahayogam is a Bible convention held every year from December 26 to __________.

Answer 34

January 1

Question 35

The Jacobite Community in Australia follows the __________ Calendar to commemorate major Christ-events.

Answer 35

Gregorian

Question 36

The Ethiopian Orthodox Church’s annual procession called __________ commemorates the Epiphany.

Answer 36

Timkat

Question 37

he Catholicos of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church is titled __________.

Answer 37

Mor Baselios

Question 38

True or False
The Syrian Orthodox Church emphasizes Miaphysitism, the belief in the single divine nature of Christ.

Answer 38

True

Question 39

True or False
Mor Baselios Thomas I was consecrated as Catholicos on 26 July 2002.

Answer 39

True

Question 40

True or False
Mor Dionysius played a vital role in starting the Akhila Malankara Suvishesha Mahayogam.

Answer 40

True

Question 41

True or False
The Syriac Community primarily uses Malayalam in their liturgical services.

Answer 41

False

Question 42

True or False
Both the Syriac and Jacobite communities have different theological beliefs.

Answer 42

False

Question 43

True or False
The Armenian Orthodox Church was the first Christian community to face persecution during the Arab conquest.

Answer 43

False

Question 43

True or False
The Jacobite Community administers their affairs through the Archbishop of the Syrian Archdiocese.

Answer 43

False

Question 44

True or False
The Coptic Church declined due to the spread of the Islamic Caliphate and language shift in Egypt.

Answer 44

True

Question 45

True or False
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church places no importance on fasting or monastic life.

Answer 45

False

Question 46

The Syrian Orthodox Church’s Catholicate is headquartered in Damascus, Syria.

Answer 46

False

Question 47

Who consecrated Mor Baselios Thomas I as Catholicos in 2002?

Answer 47

Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas

Question 48

Answer in one or two sentences:
Describe the early life challenges that Mor Baselios Thomas I faced.

Answer 48

The early life of Mor Baselios Thomas I, born C.M. Thomas, was miserable with frequent bouts of illness which affected his education.

Question 49

Answer in one or two sentences:
Write any TWO key contributions of Mor Baselios Thomas I to the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church?

Answer 49

(Any TWO)
- Presided the Universal Holy Episcopal Synod on 31 March 2014 convened at Lebanon to elect the new Patriarch after the demise of His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas.
- Was the Chief Celebrant of the installation ceremony of the new Patriarch His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II at Damascus, Syria, on 29 May 2014.
- Established several new dioceses and institutions within the Church.
- Championed the cause of Christian unity and cooperation with other denominations.
- Was the President of MJSSA and significantly enhanced the student and teacher reforms.
- Was the organising secretary and patron of Kolenchery Medical Mission Hospital, chief organiser of the North Indian Mission at Bhilai, and the secretary of the Evangelical Association of the East.
- Authored books and articles on theology, liturgy, and Church history.

Question 50

Answer in one or two sentences:
How do the Syriac and Jacobite communities differ in their liturgical practices?

Answer 50

The Syriac Community uses Syriac, Arabic, and English for liturgy and follows the Julian Calendar, while the Jacobite Community uses Syriac, Malayalam, and English, following the Gregorian Calendar.

Question 51

Answer in one or two sentences:
What significant events did Mor Baselios Thomas I preside over as Catholicos?

Answer 51

Mor Baselios Thomas I presided over the Universal Holy Episcopal Synod to elect a new Patriarch and was the Chief Celebrant at the installation ceremony of the new Patriarch, His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, in Damascus, Syria in 2014.

Question 52

Answer in one or two sentences:
What role does interfaith dialogue play in the Syrian Orthodox Church’s contemporary practices?

Answer 52

Interfaith dialogue is central to the Syrian Orthodox Church’s mission, focusing on peacebuilding and fostering better understanding among different religious groups.

Question 53

Answer in one or two sentences:
What significance does the Armenian Genocide hold for the Armenian Orthodox Church?

Answer 53

The Armenian Genocide of the 20th century is a deep wound in the history of the Armenian Orthodox Church, symbolizing the persecution endured by the community and highlighting their resilience.

Question 54

Answer in one or two sentences:
How has the Coptic Church preserved its cultural and religious identity despite historical declines?

Answer 54

The Coptic Church has retained its identity through practices like Sunday schools that revive the Coptic language, as well as its commitment to social justice, distinctive art, and liturgical traditions. Coptic icons, festivals, celebration of Christmas on January 07 etc. are examples of cultural significance in the Church.

Question 55

Answer in one or two sentences:
Who is the supreme head of the Syrian Orthodox Church, and what is their title?

Answer 55

The supreme head of the Syrian Orthodox Church is the Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, with the title ‘Moran Mor Ignatius.’

Question 56

Answer in one or two sentences:
What is the unique architectural contribution of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church to world heritage?

Answer 56

The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are a unique architectural contribution from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and are considered cultural treasures.

Question 57

Answer in a paragraph:
What do you understand by the Apostolic Disciple Period? What were the major historical events happened during this time?

Answer 57

The period between 70 to 110 AD, when the Church was led by the disciples of the apostles of Jesus Christ who learned directly from the apostles is known as the Apostolic Disciple Period. Major historical events were the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans, most of the New Testament books were written, and Rome, Antioch, and Alexandria became important centres of the Christianity.

Question 58

Write an essay:
Discuss the key theological and cultural distinctions of any TWO of the major Oriental Orthodox Churches, focusing on their historical development, contemporary practices, and cultural significance.

Answer 58

he major Oriental Orthodox Churches, including the Syrian Orthodox, Coptic, Armenian, and Ethiopian churches, have rich theological and cultural heritages shaped by their unique historical experiences.
a. The Syrian Orthodox Church:
Key Points: Ancient seat of the Patriarch of Antioch was established by St. Peter in AD 37; followed by the successors of St. Peter as our Patriarchs of Antioch and all the East., the birthplace of the term “Christian,” distinct Syriac language and liturgy, emphasis on Miaphysitism (one divine nature of Christ). Historical Note: Faced persecution after the Chalcedon Council for their beliefs, the Church persevered, preserving its traditions and flourishing in the East. Contemporary Practices: Arabic and Malayalam hymns blend with Syriac chants, while social outreach flourishes through education, healthcare, and Information Technology. Interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding remain central to their mission. Cultural Significance: Integral to Syria’s and Jacobite Syrian Orthodox cultural fabric, influencing architecture, music, and festivals. The church claims the ownership of the ‘House of Mark’ where Jesus celebrated the first Eucharist/Pesaha; the Church conducts services at the tomb of Jesus Christ.
b. The Coptic Orthodox Church:
Key Points: Predominantly Egyptian, rich theological history shaped by the School of Alexandria, unique Coptic language liturgy, distinct art and iconography. Historical Note: Declined over centuries due to Arab conquest and language shift, yet retained their identity and theological contributions. Contemporary Practices: Sunday schools revive the Coptic language, while social justice initiatives empower women and marginalised groups. Their distinctive art, icons, and festivals like Sham El-Nessim pulse with cultural significance. Cultural Significance: Deeply interwoven with Egyptian identity, influencing art, literature, and cuisine. Coptic icons and festivals hold deep cultural significance, shaping social etiquette and legal systems. They follow the Julian calendar and Christmas falls on January 07; whereas other churches follow the Gregorian calendar.
c. The Armenian Orthodox Church:
Key Points: First nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion (301 AD), endured centuries of persecution, known for rich liturgical music and traditions, emphasis on apostolic roots.
Historical Note: The Armenian Genocide of the 20th century remains a deep wound, highlighting the resilience of the community.
Contemporary Practices: The Church actively engages in ecumenical dialogue and promotes Christian unity. Liturgical music remains central, with renowned choirs keeping traditions alive. Cultural Significance: A cornerstone of Armenian national identity, shaping language, music, and architecture. The Armenian Genocide remembrance plays a vital role in their cultural and spiritual life.
d. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church:
Key Points: One of the oldest churches, claims links to Queen Sheba and King Solomon, unique liturgical practices and art forms, emphasis on fasting and monastic life.
Historical Note: Maintained independence despite invasions and pressures, played a significant role in shaping Ethiopian culture and identity.
Contemporary Practices: Annual processions like Timkat (Epiphany/Danho) draw millions of participants, showcasing vibrant traditional music and dance. Strong emphasis on fasting and monastic life.
Cultural Significance: Christianity is deeply intertwined with Ethiopian life, influencing legal systems, social etiquette, and art forms. Their distinctive church architecture, like rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, is a cultural treasure.

Question 59

Write an essay:
Name the current Patriarch of our Church? What are His Holiness’ key achievements?

Answer 59

The current Patriarch of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East is His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II. The Patriarch’s key achievements are:
* Organised large-scale youth conferences and established a global youth network.
* Oversaw the renovation of historical churches and monasteries.
* Strengthened ties with other Christian denominations and interfaith organisations.
* Actively involved in the publication of a series of books and articles related to the Church such as Essays on Syriac Theology and Spirituality, The Symbols of the Cross in the Writings of the Early Syriac Fathers, In the Tree House, and Animals from the Bible (2013).
* Encouraged the American Foundation for Syriac Studies to publish several issues of a quarterly entitled ‘Syriac Studies’ and helped in co-sponsoring a series of public lectures by outstanding scholars on Syriac theology, culture, history, and literature.

Question 60

Write an essay:
Compare and contrast the cultural practices of the Syriac and Jacobite communities within the Syrian Orthodox Church in Australia.

Answer 60

REFER TO TABLE IN TEXTBOOK OR QUESTION BANK Q61
The Syriac and Jacobite communities share similar roots but differ in liturgical language, calendar use, customs, and church administration. Both communities use Syriac and English in worship; however, the Syriac community includes Arabic, while the Jacobite community incorporates Malayalam. In terms of calendars, the Syriac community follows the Julian Calendar for commemorating significant Christian events like Hosanna, Pesaha, Easter, Ascension, and Pentecost. In contrast, the Jacobite community uses the Gregorian Calendar, aligning with Indian traditions for these celebrations.

Customs also vary, especially in Holy Matrimony. The Syriac community retains ancient Middle Eastern practices, crowning the bride and groom with actual crowns. The Jacobite community, influenced by Indian traditions, has the groom tie a minnu (a small cross) around the bride’s neck and place a Manthrakodi (sari) on her head, and often uses a large copper or golden lamp within the church.

Lastly, church governance differs slightly: the Syriac community is led by the Archbishop of the Syrian Archdiocese, whereas the Jacobite community is administered by the Patriarchal Vicar of the Malankara Archdiocese.