Difference Between Marionite Catholic And Roman Catholic

[LinaSt.Cecilia2772]

So across the street from my doctor's office my mom and I saw a Marionite Church. I asked her what the difference was between Marionite and Roman Catholic but she really couldn't answer. She did know that it was recognized by the Pope but she wasn't sure how it was different and what the role of it is in the church.

So what's the difference? Is the Marionite Church under the same bishop as the Roman Catholic diocese that bishop serves in? Any info would be great. Thanks!!

[Cherie]

The Maronite Rite (not [i]Marionite[/i]) is an Eastern Rite of the Catholic Church. It is named for St. Maron, a 4th century hermit. Interestingly enough, it is the only Eastern Rite that was never separated from Rome; they were always in communion with the Pope. (Other Eastern rites separated from Rome, but were later brought back into communion with the Catholic Church.) I also believe they are one of the only Eastern Rite churches that use statues (not icons only) in their churches.

Here is a little more information on the Maronite Rite from the Maronite Monks of Adoration in Petersham, MA. I think you will find it helpful!

[url="http://www.maronitemonks.org/MaroniteCatholics.htm"]http://www.maronitem...teCatholics.htm[/url]

As far as I know, the Eastern Rite churches have their own bishops and dioceses. But they all ultimately answer to the Pope, just as we in the Latin Rite do.