Episcopalians believe in and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world.
History
As the only U.S.-based member of the worldwide Anglican Communion, the Episcopal Church is part of the world’s third-largest group of Christians and currently has more than 1.6 million members. The Episcopal Church is a denominational descendant of—and partners with—the Church of England and the Scottish Episcopal Church.
Before the American Revolution, the Church of England was the established church in several American colonies, especially in the South. Colonial Anglicans were under the authority of the Bishop of London, as no bishops resided in the colonies. Clergy in the colonies were appointed by the British church, and anyone wanting to become an Anglican priest had to travel to England for ordination.
With the establishment of the United States with the American Revolution, American Anglicans faced a major challenge: the Church of England required its clergy to swear allegiance to the British monarch, which American clergy could no longer do. There was a need to create an independent church that could function within the new political realities of the U.S.
In 1784, Samuel Seabury was consecrated as the first American bishop. In 1789, the first General Convention of the Episcopal Church was held in Philadelphia, formally organizing the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America (commonly known as the Episcopal Church).
Beliefs
The Episcopal Church embraces a legacy of inclusion, aspiring to tell and exemplify God’s love for every human being; people of all genders and sexual orientations serve as bishops, priests, and deacons in our church. Laypeople and clergy work together in leadership and governance.
Core Beliefs:
Book of Common Prayer
“It is a most invaluable part of that blessed ‘liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free,’ that in his worship different forms and usages may without offense be allowed, provided the substance of the Faith be kept entire” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 9).
The Book of Common Prayer is a treasure chest full of devotional and teaching resources for individuals and congregations, but it is also the primary symbol of our unity. We, who are many and diverse, come together in Christ through our worship, our common prayer.
The Bible
“Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 236).
The Bible is our foundation, understood through tradition and reason, containing all things necessary for salvation. Our worship is filled with Scripture from beginning to end. Approximately 70% of the Book of Common Prayer comes directly from the Bible.
Baptismal Covenant
“Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil and renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 292).
A mini-catechism used at baptisms and on Easter and other special occasions, the baptismal covenant opens with a question-and-answer version of the statement of faith that is the Apostles’ Creed and adds five questions regarding how we, as Christians, are called to live out our faith.
The Catechism
Offered in a question-and-answer format, the catechism found in the back of the Book of Common Prayer (pp. 845-862) helps teach the foundational truths of the Christian faith.
The Creeds
“The Creeds are statements of our basic beliefs about God” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 851).
In the two foundational statements of faith—the Apostles’ Creed used at baptism, and the Nicene Creed used at communion—we join Christians throughout the ages in affirming our faith in the one God who created us, redeemed us, and sanctifies us.
The Sacraments
“Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 857).
Besides baptism and the Eucharist (Holy Communion), the church recognizes other spiritual markers in our journey of faith.
Membership
The Episcopal Church is comprised of 106 dioceses and one mission area across 22 countries or territories with more than 1.6 million members.
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