Autocephaly is the status of a church whose highest bishop or synod governs without confirmation by a higher external ecclesiastical authority. The word derives from Greek terms meaning “self-headed.”
Orthodox usage
In Orthodox Christianity, an autocephalous church elects or appoints its own primate and conducts its internal governance according to canon law. Autocephaly does not mean isolation: such churches share the same apostolic faith and sacramental life and seek communion with other Orthodox churches.
Recognition
The procedures and authorities competent to grant or recognize autocephaly have sometimes been disputed. Consequently, self-government and universal recognition are related but not always identical questions.