Here stands the Ancient Church of the East in Los Angeles. It is a testament to faith and perseverance. This church belongs to a denomination with a rich history. That history is rooted in the ancient Church of the East.
The Ancient Church of the East has origins tracing back to Mesopotamia. Christianity took root there by the mid-2nd century. The church’s geographical location led to it being known as the Church of the East. Its structure began around the year 300. Bishops organized under a Catholicos in Seleucia-Ctesiphon. This leader later gained the title of Patriarch.
In the 5th century the Church of the East leaned toward Antiochene Christology. This caused a divide with the church in the Roman Empire. Nestorian Christians, facing condemnation and expulsion from the Roman Empire, found refuge in Persia. This influx influenced the Church of the East. The Persian Christians sought to distance themselves from the Roman Empire’s church. This way they maintained their faith without suspicion of Roman collaboration.
The church expanded through missionary work. It reached areas as far as India, Tibet, China and Mongolia. Even after the Muslim Arabs conquered Mesopotamia in the 7th century, expansion continued. The Patriarchate moved to Baghdad after it became the capital in 766.
Weakening occurred with the formation of the Chaldean Catholic Church. During World War I, Assyrians suffered deportations and massacres. They were suspected of supporting the British. Survivors fled to Iraq seeking protection.
A dispute arose in 1964. Patriarch Mar Simon’s decision to adopt the Gregorian calendar was the trigger. The real issue was his leadership. The hereditary succession of the Patriarch position was questioned. Dissidents supported Mar Thomas Darmo. In 1968, he ordained new bishops and was elected Patriarch. His faction became known as The Ancient Church of the East.
Under Addai II, reunification attempts with the Assyrian Church of the East occurred. A significant move was the adoption of the Gregorian calendar for Christmas in 2010. Dialogue for reunification continued after the death of Dinkha IV in 2015. Meetings took place involving prelates from both sides. Despite efforts, unification was not achieved. Leaders continued to promote cooperation.
The Ancient Church of the East stands as a symbol of faith. It is a community with a long and complex history. The Mar Shaleeta Parish at 2064 5th Street Fernando welcomes all. It is a place where faith and community intertwine. Holy Mass and Bible study are regular events. The Rogation of Ninavites is commemorated here. The community hosts potlucks. Assyrian language school information is available for enrollment.