Full communion facts for kids
Full communion is a term used in Christian churches to describe when two different Christian groups agree on the most important beliefs. It means they share the same communion and core doctrines. This doesn't mean they are exactly the same or have no differences at all.
The meaning of full communion can be a bit different depending on the Christian group. For example, the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches understand it one way, while other Western Christian churches might see it differently.
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Understanding Full Communion
Full communion is like two friends who agree on all the big, important things in life, even if they have different hobbies or ways of doing daily tasks. In Christianity, it means churches recognize each other as truly sharing the same faith.
Catholic Church's View
The Roman Catholic Church is in full communion with other Catholic churches, like the Chaldean Catholic Church.
- Even though the Roman Catholic Church follows the Latin Rite (a way of celebrating Mass), and the Chaldean Catholic Church follows the East Syrian tradition (a different way), they agree completely on all their main beliefs.
- The Roman Catholic Church is in partial communion with Protestant Churches. This means they agree on many things, but not everything. For example, a Catholic priest can forgive sins, but a Protestant minister usually cannot in the same way.
Orthodox Churches' View
- All the different Eastern Orthodox Churches are in full communion with each other. They share the same core beliefs and practices.
- Similarly, all the Oriental Orthodox Churches are in full communion with each other.
Other Christian Churches
- The churches in the Union of Utrecht are in full communion with the Anglican Church. This means they have agreed to share the most important parts of their faith and worship.
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