Home » About » What is Anglicanism?

  1. Anglican Identity
  2. Book of Common Prayer
  3. True Foundation
  4. International Fellowship
  5. Connection to the Early Church, Common Prayer & Sacraments
  6. 39 Articles
  7. Deacons
  8. Worldwide Missionary Movement

Connection to the Early Church, Common Prayer & Sacraments

Commentary by Susan Freeman

I did not come quietly into the Anglican Communion. Dating a “cradle Episcopalian” I would, with regularity, have “debates” with my husband-to-be over Anglican beliefs and practices. I argued and asked lots of questions. Coming from another church tradition with a strong background of reading, studying and memorizing Scripture, I realized there were some missing pieces for me in faith and practice. The Holy Spirit was at work calling me in a new direction. and after marrying Bill I was confirmed in a small Episcopal church in North Carolina.

Here are three aspects of Anglicanism I’ve experienced over the last 25 years which have been sources for growth for me as a follower in faith of Jesus Christ:

  1. A connection to the early church. We stand in a line of faith and practice going all the way back to the apostles and have a rich heritage in the historic writings of the church fathers. These writings brought me to a greater appreciation of those who wrestled with key doctrines of our faith in the early centuries after Christ’s death and resurrection. I also read about and discovered an added depth of meaning in worship through the beauty of liturgy.
  2. Common prayer. What I initially perceived as rote prayer in worship I began to experience as great prayers of faith. The practice of Morning Prayer has provided structure for my devotional life and is a way to join others across the world who begin their days with these same prayers and readings.
  3. Sacraments. Sacraments are a means of encountering the mystery of God through visible and tangible signs such as water, bread and wine. In the sacrament of Holy Communion I am reminded of God’s saving action through Jesus Christ. Along with many, I have received God’s grace and encountered the healing presence of Christ at the table of Communion.

For all who are making their way into the worldwide Anglican Communion, I pray that you too will find this to be a place of connection with the early church, a place of prayer, and a place where you meet the Lord, experience the mystery and majesty of God, and receive His healing and grace.

Ministry Pages