About Anglicans

 Just the Basics

First and foremost, Anglicans are Christians. Globally, Anglicans form the third largest body of Christians in the world (around 80 million members) behind the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches.  

St. Peter’s Anglican Church enjoys its place in historic Christianity through its membership in the Anglican Diocese of the Living Word, a diocese within the Anglican Church of North America (A.C.N.A.). The ACNA, like more than 40 other worldwide churches is a province within the greater worldwide Anglican Communion.

Origins of the Name

The name “Anglican” is from the Latin, ‘Anglicana’ as in ‘Ecclesia Anglicana’. The Oxford English Dictionary (1977) first reference is in the Magna Carta (1215). Its English form, ‘Anglican’ was first used in the 17th century as a collective description of reformed Protestant churches opposed to Rome, then for Church of England churches globally in Empire.

Global Anglicans

As the Church of England spread throughout the world, it took on different names in different countries. This group of separate churches are known as the Anglican Communion. Just as the English language spread with the British empire, so did Anglican Christianity. When Anglicans resettled in new lands, they brought their personal faith with them. Chaplains and pastors were often among their number. Additionally, many Anglicans traveled as missionaries to share the Gospel. Consequently, Anglican churches now exist all over the world in more than 165 countries. 

Anglican Worship

Anglican worship can be diverse, and it is best understood by visiting and attending a worship service. The church inherits a worship style that recognizes the supremacy of the Bible. Worship gatherings follow a structure found in the Book of Common Prayer in presenting our guilt and need before God in confession, God’s provision in Christ our Savior by his grace alone, and our response in gratitude, prayer, and thanksgiving to God for his gift of eternal life in Christ alone. The Prayer Book, described as the Scriptures arranged for worship, provides helpful resources for everything from personal daily devotions to large public gatherings of worship. It includes prayers for every season of life.

Those desiring a walk with God that is anchored in Scripture; the historic faith; and a personal, vibrant, daily experience with God will appreciate St Peter’s Anglican Church. For further information on the history of Anglicanism, Dr. Michael Jensen has written an informative article, entitled “9 Things You Should Know About Anglicanism” which we think you will find helpful.

St. Peter’s Anglican Church: Ancient Truth, Real People, New Life!

We are in the Anglican Diocese of the Living Word

Meet our bishop, discover our story, and learn about our passion to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to America.