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The pope is the same as a Patriarch.
There were five patriarchs Christianity. They are in Rome, Jerusalem, Antioch, Alexandria, and Constantinople. In the past they were considered first among equals. In other words they were first in the given geographic area they were given.There were different events, that I will not go into, and the Patriarch of Rome (also called the Pope) started to consider himself first among all Patriarch. The other Patriarchs did not accept that and that is the reason the churches separated.
The are some minor religious differences and practices. First of all, the relationship between the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Catholics believe that the Father and the Son can send the Holy Spirit, while Eastern Orthodox claim that only the Father can do it.
Secondly is the use of unleavened bread in communion (bread that does not contain yeast). Catholicism accepts it, Orthodox rejects it.
Thirdly, is the use of Icons and statues of religious figures. Orthodoxy uses more Icons and rejects statues, while Catholicism has the reverse.
Fourth. Orthodoxy allows married men to become priests (but once married they cannot be ordained); they allow up to three divorces.
These are the major one I can think of.
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