In the Eastern Catholic Churches, major archbishop (sometimes also styled as major archeparch) is a title for the chief hierarch ("Father and Head")[1] of an autonomous (sui juris) particular Church that has not been "endowed with the patriarchal title".[2] Major archbishops generally have the same rights, privileges, and jurisdiction as Eastern Catholic patriarchs, except where expressly provided otherwise, and rank immediately after them in precedence of honor.[3]
In addition to their role governing their particular Church, major archbishops, like Eastern Catholic patriarchs, are ex officio members of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches in the Roman Curia.[4] They are required to attend the annual general meeting of this congregation, as well as other sessions if they are visiting Rome or are otherwise able.[5]
There are currently four major archbishops each leading a major archiepiscopal autonomous Church.
- ^ "Letter of the Holy Father Francis of Confirmation of the Canonical Election of the Major Archbishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly of the Syro-Malabars". Vatican.va. Retrieved 15 January 2024.
- ^ 1990 Code of Canons for the Oriental Churches, Canon 151
- ^ 1990 Code of Canons for the Oriental Churches, Canon 152, Canon 154
- ^ Pope John Paul II (1998), Apostolic constitution Pastor Bonus, Article 57
- ^ Pope John Paul II (1998), Apostolic constitution Pastor Bonus, Article 11.