Economy (Eastern Orthodoxy)

In Eastern Orthodoxy, economy is discretionary recognition granted by an Orthodox church to sacraments performed in heterodox churches, or recognition granted by Orthodox bishops to sacraments performed in other dioceses or other jurisdictions.

The term is also used for any deviation from the standard rules (canons) of the Church that is made with a view towards putting the spirit before the letter and helping the cause of the salvation of souls. Generally only bishops can decide to make such deviations. They are seen to be justifiable because the canons are not laws but rather suggestions and guidelines which might, at times, become an impediment.

However, the normal case should always be Akribia, or strict adherence to the standards.