The Patriarch of Antioch is a historic and prestigious title held by the bishop of Antioch, a city that served as a vital center for early Christianity. The position is deeply rooted in Pauline Christianity, as the diocese is recognized as the overseer of the first gentile Christian community. Its historical significance is bolstered by the fact that the names of its bishops have been preserved since the apostolic beginnings of the church.
In the contemporary era, the title remains a point of ecclesiastical importance, though it is now shared among several different traditions. Currently, five distinct churches utilize the title of Patriarch of Antioch, reflecting the complex history of schisms and institutional developments within the faith. These include one Eastern Orthodox church, one Oriental Orthodox church, and three Eastern Catholic churches, all of which trace their spiritual lineage back to this ancient see.