The Place of St Peter A Perspective, Inspired by the Areopagite, of the Hierarchal Structure of the Church
This study is a critique of Eucharistic Ecclesiology as developed from Nicholas Afanasiev to John Zizioulas and a consideration of theoretical models of the Church. The study presents an ecclesiological model thatapproaches Eucharistic Ecclesiology from a different perspective and that provides a framework for hierarchal structure and relationships within the Orthodox Church. There is the introduction of the term theotic relationships to define the type of relationships evident within the Church hierarchy and an explanation of how theotic relationships form the basis of Church hierarchal structure both in the public sphere, of bishops to priests and bishops to bishops and in the private such as in marriage and in monastic leadership. The place of Peter is shown to be important in how these relationships are to be understood and formed. The study draws on the Ecclesiastical Hierarchy of Dionysius the Areopagite to provide the patristic basis from which the theory behind theotic relationships is drawn. Theotic relationships are shown to focus on the bishop in public terms and to be established with the mysteries to lift the relationship beyond that of man to man to that of man to God. Theotic relationships also assume the place of discipleship and obedience, which is particularly evident in the monastic relationship of abbot, or spiritual father, to monks and in the relationships of husband to wife; these relationships are asymmetrical yet respect equality. This asymmetry and equality is shown to be best manifest in synods reflecting a number of disciples around their master, that is the apostles about Christ; Christ is the head, without whom nothing can be done, yet the apostles rule with Christ as sharing an equality with him. The synods are manifested in jurisdictions at several levels so that relationships are personal and respect the place of Christ being fully present at each level. Theotic relationships assume permanence of relations as man is called to share in God's life eternally through theosis, union with God.