A concise guide that examines the historical background and divisions between the Roman Catholic Church in the West and the East, including the Great Schism; the various rites of the Eastern Church (such as Byzantine, Alexandrian, Antiochene, Armenian, and Chaldean) which have unique histories, languages, and cultures; the concept of the Eastern Catholic Churches, that is, communities of churches that retain their Eastern rites and traditions, but are in full communion with the Pope in Rome; and outlines the unique theology, spirituality, and worship practices (such as the use of icons) that characterize Eastern Christianity. This book serves as an excellent introduction for readers who want to understand the spiritual and liturgical heritage of Eastern Christianity without having to read a thick and complex theological history text.