What is the Episcopal Church?

The Episcopal Church is a self-governing branch of the Anglican Communion, a world-wide fellowship which trace their Christian heritage through the Church of England. The diocese of Virginia is one of the seven original diocese which formed the Episcopal Church when its constitution was adopted in 1789.

The Episcopal Church is noted for its combination of ancient and modern elements and its rich diversity of opinion. Centered upon the authority of scripture, tradition and reason, it encompasses many different expressions of Christian life and worship.

What is the Faith of the Church?

The Faith of the Anglican Church is the Christian Faith. Christian doctrine taught by Anglicans is based on Scripture, Tradition and Reason. No doctrine can be taught which is not at the same time scriptural, traditional, and reasonable.

Scripture

Our scripture is the Holy Bible, which is read as part of the Liturgy every Sunday. The Episcopal church is Bible based, and the first part of the Sunday service is centered on the Lessons-readings from the Old and New Testament.

Tradition

Our Tradition began with the Catholic Church in Rome. Then after separation from the Roman Church, we received influence from the Protestant Reformation and the Eastern Church. Therefore, the Episcopal Faith is a blend of Evangelical and Catholic (Eastern and Western) Christianity. Persons from Protestant and Catholic backgrounds can find common ground in the Episcopal Church.

We believe in two creeds:

The Nicene Creed
The Apostles' Creed

We also believe in the Episcopal 39 Articles of Religion which is a statement of our faith dating back to the 1500's.

Reason:

We use our own hearts and minds to reason out for ourselves our own Faith. Episcopalians are encouraged to read the Scriptures and meditate upon them. Approaching the Word of God in a prayerful way can open up the meaning of His message.

It is important for a Christian to find the Truth in the Word of God and apply it to their own life. There are many who have traveled the road ahead of us, and have taken the time to write about their travels and travails. The writings of Christian authors and philosophers offer a rich source of text to enrich our lives.

How do Episcopalians worship?

We use the Book of Common Prayer as the official liturgy for our services. It provides the congregation with the text for the service, allowing them to participate in the prayers, respond to the readings, read the psalm and say the creed. The Hymnal provides the music for the singing of hymns. A bulletin lists the order of service, including page numbers for prayers and hymns, and is distributed to worshipers as they enter the church.

Prior to the service, there is a period of silence. This time can be used to prepare for the service, review the scripture, meditate on the words of the hymns or simply to be quiet before God. The service begins with the Opening Acclamation and a Collect. The early service typically is conducted without music, while the later service on Sunday includes music. Weekday services are conducted without music or sermon, and provide a time for prayer and meditation.