Episcopalianism is one of the branches of Christianity, also known as Anglicanism. This word is pronounced as /ɛˌpɪskəˈpeɪliənɪzəm/. The first syllable is pronounced as "eh-pih-skoh" with the stress on the second syllable. The second and third syllables are pronounced as "pey-lee-uh". The fourth syllable is pronounced as "nuhm". The word ends with the suffix "-ism", indicating the belief system related to Episcopalianism. The word "Episcopalianism" is derived from the Greek word "episkopos", meaning "bishop".
Episcopalianism refers to a branch of Christianity that follows the principles and practices of the Episcopal Church. The term derives from the Greek word "episkopos," meaning bishop. Episcopalianism is characterized by its adherence to the beliefs, liturgy, and hierarchical structure of the Episcopal Church, which is structured on the traditional apostolic succession of bishops.
Episcopalianism places special emphasis on the role of bishops as the overseers of churches and the authority they hold within the church hierarchy. The Episcopal Church believes in the threefold ministry of bishops, priests, and deacons and maintains the sacraments as central elements of worship.
Episcopalianism traces its roots back to the Anglican Church, which originated in England during the 16th century Reformation. It shares many theological and liturgical similarities with Anglicanism but operates with a distinct governance structure and specific beliefs.
Adherents of Episcopalianism value the Book of Common Prayer, a central liturgical text that guides their worship, and support a broad range of perspectives on social and theological issues, including gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and interfaith dialogue. Episcopalianism also emphasizes the importance of reason and intellectual inquiry, encouraging believers to engage in critical thinking and interpretation of scripture.
Overall, Episcopalianism encompasses a diverse community of Christians who share common worship practices, theological principles, and a commitment to the authority of bishops.
The system of episcopal church government.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Episcopalianism" originated from the word "Episcopalian", which refers to a follower or member of the Episcopal Church, a Christian denomination. The term "Episcopal" comes from the Latin word "episcopus", meaning bishop. The root "episcopus" can be further traced back to the Greek word "epískopos", which also means bishop. Over time, "Episcopalianism" came to represent the beliefs, practices, and doctrines associated with the Episcopal Church.