The Procession of the Holy Spirit

General Message of the Lecture

This lecture explains the Coptic Orthodox doctrine concerning the procession of the Holy Spirit and clarifies the faith-based and theological foundation received from the Ecumenical Councils, while responding to opposing views, especially the issue of the Filioque.

 Spiritual and Theological Summary

First: The Essence of Faith

• His Holiness Pope Shenouda III affirms that the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father alone, as clearly stated in the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed.
• This faith was received from the First and Second Ecumenical Councils, and the Council of Ephesus confirmed that it must not be altered.

Second: The Difference Between Procession and Sending

• Procession is an eternal relationship within the Holy Trinity, beyond time.
• Sending is a divine act that occurs within time, such as the descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.
• Confusing these two concepts leads to serious theological errors.

Third: Understanding the Holy Trinity

• The Father is the source: the Son is begotten of Him, and the Holy Spirit proceeds from Him.
• The Son and the Holy Spirit share the same divine essence, yet each Hypostasis has its unique property.
• Claiming that the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Son disrupts the balance of Trinitarian doctrine.

Fourth: Responding to Objections

• Christ’s sending of the Holy Spirit does not mean that the Spirit proceeds from Him.
• Spiritual gifts are distinct from the Hypostasis of the Holy Spirit.
• Testimony and glorification among the Hypostases are mutual and do not imply that one is the source of another.

Fifth: The Faith Dimension

• Orthodox doctrine preserves the purity of the faith and its faithful transmission.
• Precision in theological expression is essential to safeguard true faith.

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