The current structure of the Anglican Church was developed in the late 1600s. Though Episcopalians are a denomination of Protestantism, the church encourages and allows a variety of traditions and interpretations of the Scripture. Despite the religious freedom, the ability of multiple interpretations allows for a number of disputes. These religious practice differences are among various regions and many churches in different churches tend to disagree often.
The Episcopal Church shares the “Book of Common Prayer.” This is “a compilation of liturgy developed by Thomas Cranmer in the 16th century.” However, because the denomination allows for freedom among areas of the religion, many versions of the “Book of Common Prayer” exist.
The Anglicans follow via media, which is defined as the middle ground between Catholicism and Protestantism. This denomination believed Luther and Calvin were extremists. Anglicans resemble the Roman Catholics with the practices of a “three-fold ministry” with a bishop, priest and deacon. However, much like the Protestants, the Anglicans allow their leader to marry. The Anglican’s worship ceremonies reflect those of Catholics because they use all their senses while participating in worship services.
Anglicans encourage every member of the church to be involved in the ministry of the church. This is because baptism makes “everyone a minister of the gospel.” There are three central aspects to Anglicans: Scripture, which is the “primary basis for both faith and practice,” tradition and reason.
The Episcopalian Church is very welcoming and encourages people to visit their church because they believe no one is an outcast according to Jesus Christ. They welcome anyone to “serve as preachers, teachers, or worship leaders.” They also emphasize, “the knowledge that God loves you and forgives is always present.” Anyone who has been baptized has the ability to take communion. The church also encourages people to grow by debating what God calls them to do and learn how to be a follower of Christ.
When it comes to the concept of prayer, Anglicans believe it is the focal point of any conversation. “Lex Orandi, lex credendi” means “praying and worshipping are the most important things we do.” Anglican’s prayer life has been sustained and enhanced because of the Book of Common Prayer which assists Anglican’s to lead a regular prayer life. Their emphasis on habitual prayer encourages setting time aside everyday in order to directly communicate with God. Through prayers, praise and worship belief is created according to Anglicans, rather than just a statement of belief.