There are of late some misconceptions regarding the
history, and motivations of the Anglican Church.
I am going to be introducing a series of posts to
clarify some of the misconceptions.
When people inquire about the Anglican Church - it
is often asked "Who is the head of the Anglican Church"?
I answer…
"Jesus Christ"
Responses range from humble agreement - to thinking
it is the "Archbishop of Canterbury" - to "no - who leads the
church here on earth?
The Anglican Church is not organized in the same
manner as other Churches.
Many do not realize, that the current structure of
the Anglican Church follows the order of the Celtic Clans.
While it is true the Archbishop of Canterbury is the
head of the Church of England - which is AN Anglican Church - he does
not preside over the cooperative… (More on this later)
Why do I say cooperative? It is the manner in which
our Church operates.
Joseph of Arimathea organized the Church in Scotland
after being relocated there; leaving his estate in Glastonbury because of the
Roman invasion of England in the year 43.
In the year 44 the Church began to take the 'shape'
it is currently organized - still to this day.
It is after this pattern of each "Clan" -
now taking the form of Communions, Diocese, and Parishes - being sovereign, and
yet tied to the others by the independent cooperation, and the love of Jesus
Christ.
Joseph of Arimathea knew it was imperative that no
one person carried authority over another - especially when it comes to our salvation.
Each of us is responsible for our own salvation (Philippians 2:12).
Ministers - which we call Priests - do not
"rule" over our Parishes and such; rather, provide organization, order, Priesthood
services, counseling, teaching, mentoring - but always openly advocate that we
as individuals are ultimately responsible for our relationship with Jesus
Christ.
As the Church grew into a worldwide organization -
there have seen differences in the way and manner to which the local group
wished to worship.
Years ago we formulated a set of prayers and services that
are commonly recognized as a means in which someone from one area can follow
the worship provided in a different area.
Throughout the world there are minor changes whereas
this book - The Book of Common Prayer - is offered as a guideline to provide
structure and continuity.
Those who claim we have written our own scripture
misunderstand this book. While it does contain passages from the Bible - The
Psaltery, or Psalms - it never claims to replace the Bible.
Our Church has many subdivisions such as The Church
of England, The Episcopal Church, and many other Anglican Orders and
Communions. Even though there are such varieties of organizations within the
Church, we come together in unity to our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Recognizing these differing organizations within the
Church, we also admit that the management of these organizations takes on a
personality of the local leadership. While interpretation of scripture and
worship may vary, and policy of administering ordinances also falls to the leadership:
the overall goal of the worldwide coalition of The Anglican Church is to
minister to all of God's children, and to bring all to Christ.
Some of the "Orders" within the Church
fall into the category of a "Monastic" Order - or - operate as a
modern day Monastery.
These Orders do not primarily have congregations
that meet as other Orders do, but provide support and other administrative
services fulfilling their role in the cooperative of the Anglican Faith, as well as sponsor some congregations for those who aren't able to locate one to suit their needs.
It may appear confusing, but in reality, works quite
well in organizing and promulgating a fellowship uniting in the name of Jesus
Christ.
Continue to follow our look at the Church, as it may help build an understanding and deeper devotion to our path to Jesus Christ.
Let us pray:
Almighty Father in heaven: it is an honor for us to
humble ourselves this Holy Sabbath, in worship to Thee and our Saviour Jesus
Christ. We extend our hearts and compassion to those who have been victim of
the recent typhoon in the Philippine islands; and we pray our assistance and
comfort in Thee will offer them solace in both body and soul. We give our
thanks for the blessings Thou hast given in bounty; we cannot measure the love
Thou hast shown to us. For our beautiful planet, for our sustenance, for
salvation in our Saviour Jesus: we thank Thee for all we have. We are thankful
for our liberty. We are thankful for those who protect it. We continue to pray
for the safety of our military, and their safe return to family and loved ones.
Grant us absolution from our sins, and that our hearts may be forgiving; may we
never cease to live the teachings of our Master Jesus. We are blessed and are
thankful for the many Angels Thou hast given; we cannot extend enough gratitude
for allowing us to have such compassion from Thee. Open our hearts this Thy
Holy Day, to accept the salvation offered through our Saviour Jesus Christ; in
His Name we pray; Amen.
God Bless…
Reverend Jack
