Sobornost

From the Russian sobor, “gathering” or “synod,” corresponding somewhat to the Greek koinomnia, with no proper English equivalent, this term in the Russian Orthodox Church denotes an ineffable unity. Viewing the Roman Church's unity as superficially based on exterior authority and Protestantism's individuality as inherently disruptive, the Orthodox claim a sobornaja, “oneness,” among clergy and laity, for example through the liturgy. This highly personal-corporate approach they account as ecumenically viable ultimately (cf. the work of the Society of SS. Alban and Sergius).