The Episcopal Church refers to a mainline Protestant denomination in the United States that is a part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. With roots tracing back to the Church of England, the Episcopal Church is characterized by its adherence to the principles and traditions of Anglicanism.
The Episcopal Church is known for its hierarchical structure, which includes bishops as spiritual leaders. Under this framework, the bishop serves as the chief pastor and overseer for a geographic jurisdiction called a diocese. Each diocese is further divided into individual parishes, led by clergy such as priests or rectors, who conduct worship services and pastoral care.
Central to the denomination's beliefs is the Book of Common Prayer, a standard liturgical text used in worship that includes prayers, hymns, and the order of services. The Episcopal Church places considerable significance on the sacraments, particularly baptism and Holy Communion, which are seen as outward expressions of inward grace and crucial elements of Christian practice.
The Episcopal Church upholds a theological tradition that emphasizes a balance between Scripture, tradition, and reason. It embraces the understanding that faith should be informed both by biblical teachings and by intellectual and rational inquiry.
The Episcopal Church is recognized for its commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and progressive stances on various issues. It has been involved in activism for civil rights, gender equality, LGBT rights, environmental sustainability, and refugee and immigrant advocacy. Overall, the Episcopal Church seeks to foster an open and inclusive religious community that welcomes diverse perspectives and promotes spiritual growth and social transformation.
