As Episcopalians, we believe in and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world. We believe that God loves you – no exceptions.  The Episcopal Church embraces a legacy of inclusion, aspiring to tell and exemplify God’s love for every human being; people of all genders and sexual orientations serve as bishops, priests, and deacons in our church. Laypeople and clergy work together in leadership and governance.

 
 
The Episcopal Church welcomes all who worship Jesus Christ and comprises 108 dioceses and three mission areas in 22 countries or territories.  While The Episcopal Church is headquartered in New York City, we are not a national church—we are a multinational denomination.

As the only U.S.-based member of the worldwide Anglican Communion, The Episcopal Church is part of the world’s third-largest group of Christians and currently has more than 1.5 million members.  

We are denominational descendants of—and partners with—the Church of England and the Scottish Episcopal Church.  

The mission of the church, as stated in the Book of Common Prayer’s catechism, is “to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ.” In step with that mission, The Episcopal Church follows Jesus into loving, liberating, and life-giving relationships with God, with each other, and with the earth.  

We are the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement. 

 

 

CORE TO OUR BELIEFS

THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER

“It is a most invaluable part of that blessed ‘liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free,’ that in his worship different forms and usages may without offense be allowed, provided the substance of the Faith be kept entire."

The Book of Common Prayer is a treasure chest full of devotional and teaching resources for individuals and congregations, but it is also the primary symbol of our unity. We, who are many and diverse, come together in Christ through our worship and our common prayer. 

THE BIBLE

“Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them”.

THE BAPTISMAL COVENANT

“Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil and renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?”

THE CATECHISM

The catechism, found in the back of the Book of Common Prayer, is offered in a question-and-answer format and helps teach the foundational truths of the Christian faith. 

THE CREEDS

“The Creeds are statements of our basic beliefs about God”

THE SACRAMENTS

“Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace”. Besides baptism and the Eucharist (Holy Communion), the church recognizes other spiritual markers in our journey of faith.  

Confirmation 

Reconciliation of a Penitent (private confession) 

Matrimony (Christian marriage)

Orders (ordination to deacon, priest, or bishop)

Unction (anointing with oil those who are sick or dying)