Ecclesiology of John Karmiris

The article presents the fundamentals of the ecclesiology of the prominent contemporary Greek Orthodox theologian John Karmiris. To do this, “Orthodox Ecclesiology” as his main work dedicated to this subject is used, as well as his various brochures and articles that delve into specific ecclesiological issues. Considerable attention is given to inter-Orthodox and inter-Christian relations, in which the Greek theologian directly participated. Also noted is a certain evolution in J. Karmiris’ views of the role of laypeople in the life of the Church and his attitude towards representatives of other denominations and religions. J. Karmiris’ works are analyzed in the context of theological life of Greece, which was flourishing at the time when his activities were ebullient. He was at a crossroads of academic theology and neopatristic school, incorporating both traditions into his thought, and later, his activities received various but overwhelmingly positive assessments, with interest in his works persisting to this day.