Anglican Church vs. Episcopal Church — What's the Difference?

The Anglican Church, also known as the Church of England, is a Christian denomination that originated in England and has spread worldwide. It's a part of the Anglican Communion, a global family of churches linked to the Church of England. The Episcopal Church, on the other hand, is the United States' member church of the Anglican Communion. It shares the same Anglican heritage and theology but operates independently under its governance.

In terms of governance, the Anglican Church is headed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, who is a spiritual leader but doesn't have direct authority over all Anglican churches globally. The Episcopal Church in the U.S. is governed by the General Convention and presided over by the Presiding Bishop, making decisions independently of the Church of England.

The Anglican Church has a more centralized structure in England, with a strong historical connection to British society and monarchy. The Episcopal Church reflects the diversity and culture of the United States, adapting its practices to fit the context of American society while maintaining core Anglican traditions and liturgy.

Both churches share similar liturgical styles and beliefs, such as the centrality of the Eucharist, the Book of Common Prayer, and the threefold ministry of bishops, priests, and deacons. However, the Episcopal Church is known for being particularly progressive on social issues, including gender equality and LGBT rights.

Membership in the Anglican Church is often tied to the historical and cultural context of England and the British Isles. In contrast, the Episcopal Church in the United States attracts a wide range of members, including those drawn to its inclusive policies and liturgical worship style.