This page outlines the theological foundations and beliefs of the Episcopal Church, as taught at st-francis-episcopal-church.

Identity and Heritage

• Roots: Born out of the Church of England, the Episcopal Church became a self-governing body following the American Revolution (see page-3157144).
• Tradition: Stands in the Reformed tradition, yet claims direct descent from the Early Church, similar to Roman Catholic or Eastern Orthodox traditions.
• Worship: Celebrates the Holy Eucharist in ways similar to Roman Catholicism, but does not recognize a single governing authority like the Pope.

The Book of Common Prayer (BCP)

• Purpose: Provides a unified framework of rites and instructions for corporate worship worldwide ("common prayer").
• History: Originally compiled in English by Thomas Cranmer in the 16th century, the BCP has undergone local revisions to adapt to changing times and places.

Authority & Belief

• Scripture, Tradition, & Reason: Episcopalians engage with the Bible using human "Reason" (intelligence and experience) alongside "Tradition" (the historical teachings of the church over time).
• Lex Orandi, Lex Credendi: The guiding liturgical principle that "praying shapes believing."