The Empty Throne: Reflections on the History and Future of the Orthodox Episcopacy

Within the local parishes of North America, the bishop's throne stands empty for the majority of the year. The bishop is an occasionally honoured guest rather than a true, consistent pastor of the local flock.

This has not always been the case, nor need it be so forever. In The Empty Throne: Reflections on the History and Future of the Orthodox Episcopacy, Fr. Lawrence R. Farley explores how the Orthodox episcopacy developed over the centuries and suggests what can be done in modern times to bring the bishop back into closer contact with his flock.