What is Anglicanism?

Did Anglicanism Begin with the Reformation?

Anglican Christianity did not begin from nothing in the sixteenth century. The Christian faith had been present in Britain for many centuries, and the Church in England inherited the Scriptures, historic creeds, ordained ministry, sacramental worship, and patterns of prayer of the ancient Church. During the English Reformation, that existing Church was reformed according to Holy Scripture while retaining its historic continuity. The Book of Common Prayer, the Thirty-Nine Articles, and the Anglican formularies gave this reformed catholic identity its distinctive expression.

What Do Anglicans Believe?

Anglican beliefs are summarized in the Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion and the Book of Common Prayer. These historical documents emphasize that:

Scripture is the Supreme Authority:

Anglican beliefs are summarized in the Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion and the Book of Common Prayer. These historical documents emphasize that:

Salvation is God’s Gift of Grace:

We are justified before God through faith because of the merit of Jesus Christ, not because we have earned his favor.

Baptism and Holy Communion are Means of Grace:

They are not empty ceremonies. Through visible signs, God confirms his promises and strengthens his people in faith.

How Do Anglicans Worship?

Anglican worship is liturgical, meaning it follows a structured, historical pattern. We use the Book of Common Prayer to guide our services, ensuring that our prayers are deeply rooted in Scripture. A typical Sunday service at Holy Cross moves from the reading and preaching of God's Word to the celebration of Holy Communion (the Lord's Supper).

Anglican worship is therefore more than a Sunday style. Together with the Church year and the Daily Office, it forms a shared rule of prayer that shapes our beliefs, habits, and loves over time. We do not generate worship on our own; through the Holy Spirit, the Church participates in the Son’s worship of the Father, uniting us with Christians across centuries and cultures.

What Is Anglican Church Life Like?

Anglican church life is centered on belonging to a local parish rather than merely attending a weekly service. The Church is a spiritual family in which Christians worship together, receive God’s grace, learn the faith, care for one another, and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ. Our shared life begins at the Lord’s Table and continues through prayer, fellowship, Christian formation, service, and works of mercy.

At Holy Cross, we seek to follow a common rhythm of worship and discipleship shaped by the Lord’s Day, the Church year, and the daily prayers of the Church. This pattern teaches us that the Christian life is not lived alone. God forms us as members of Christ’s Body, giving each person gifts to use for the good of others and sending the whole Church into the world as a faithful witness to the Gospel.