ECCLESIOLOGY OF ARCHPRIEST GEORGES FLOROVSKY

Abstract

Ecclesiology was a pivotal topic in twentieth-century theology, and among the prominent theologians of that era, Archpriest Georges Florovsky left an indelible mark on this field. The aim of our article is to identify the main features that characterize Florovsky’s vision of ecclesiology. According to Florovsky, ecclesiology is not merely a component of Christology but an essential part, without which Christology itself would be incomplete. In Florovsky’s ecclesiology, this emphasis on Christology finds its roots in the Pauline understanding, where Christ is recognized as the pillar of the Church’s unity. It’s noteworthy that  Florovsky, in discussing ecclesiology, distinctly delineates between the roles of Christ and the Holy Spirit.
When discussing the Church, Florovsky employs nearly all allegorical comparisons available in his time. He particularly underscores
the significance of the bishop’s personality within the Church. According to him, the institution of the bishop possesses a mystical nature and is essential for preserving the unity of the Church.