Anglican vs. Catholic — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 23, 2023
Anglican refers to the Church of England and its global branches, while Catholic pertains to the universal Christian church led by the Pope in Rome.
Difference Between Anglican and Catholic
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Anglican and Catholic are both branches of Christianity with deep historical roots. Anglican originated from England's Church of England, founded by King Henry VIII. Catholic, on the other hand, is a term that signifies the universal Christian church, predominantly associated with the Roman Catholic Church led by the Pope.
The differences between Anglican and Catholic are pronounced, especially in matters of leadership and doctrine. The Anglican Communion recognizes the Archbishop of Canterbury as its spiritual head, with each regional church being self-governing. The Catholic Church is a centralized entity, with the Pope in Rome holding the highest authority.
Both Anglican and Catholic traditions share many religious practices and sacraments. However, their views differ on certain theological issues and liturgical practices. For instance, the Anglican Church permits its clergy to marry, while the Catholic Church enforces celibacy for its priests.
Historically, the Anglican Church was established in the 16th century as a result of the English Reformation—a split from the Roman Catholic Church due to political and religious disagreements. The Catholic Church, with its origins tracing back to the apostolic era, has remained consistent in its core doctrines and practices over the centuries.
In terms of global presence, both Anglican and Catholic churches have a widespread following. The Anglican Communion is present in many countries through its regional churches, while the Catholic Church boasts a significant global presence with diverse cultural expressions within its fold.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Originated from the Church of England
Traces back to the apostolic era
Leadership
Archbishop of Canterbury
Pope in Rome
Clergy Marital Status
Allows clergy to marry
Enforces celibacy for priests
Governance
Each regional church is self-governing
Centralized authority with the Pope at the helm
Transubstantiation Belief
Views vary; generally more symbolic
Literal belief in the transformation of bread and wine
Compare with Definitions
Anglican
Has a decentralized governance with self-governing regional churches.
The Anglican Communion's structure allows regional churches to adapt to local contexts.
Catholic
Recognizes the Pope in Rome as the supreme religious authority.
As a Catholic, he awaits the Pope's annual message every Christmas.
Anglican
Originated from the English Reformation in the 16th century.
The Anglican faith has its roots in historical events of England.
Catholic
Enforces clerical celibacy and has specific liturgical practices.
The Catholic priest at the local parish is known for his dedication to service.
Anglican
Recognizes the Archbishop of Canterbury as its spiritual leader.
As an Anglican, she respects the Archbishop's spiritual guidance.
Catholic
Has a significant global presence with diverse cultural expressions.
The Catholic Church celebrates various regional festivals with enthusiasm.
Anglican
Relating to the Church of England or its global branches.
The Anglican cathedral is an architectural marvel in the city.
Catholic
Relating to the universal Christian church under the Pope's leadership.
The Catholic cathedral in the city is a pilgrimage site for many.
Anglican
Allows a diverse range of theological beliefs within its communion.
The Anglican church is known for its theological inclusivity.
Catholic
Holds traditions and teachings consistent with early Christian doctrines.
The Catholic Mass has elements that trace back to the early church.
Anglican
Of or characteristic of the Church of England or any of the churches related to it in origin and communion, such as the Episcopal Church.
Catholic
Of the Roman Catholic faith.
Anglican
(Archaic) Of or relating to England or the English.
Catholic
A member of the Roman Catholic Church.
Anglican
A member of the Church of England or of any of the churches related to it.
Catholic
Of broad or liberal scope; comprehensive
"The 100-odd pages of formulas and constants are surely the most catholic to be found" (Scientific American).
Anglican
English; of or pertaining to England or the English nation; especially, pertaining to, or connected with, the established church of England; as, the Anglican church, doctrine, orders, ritual, etc.
Catholic
Including or concerning all humankind; universal
"what was of catholic rather than national interest" (J.A. Froude).
Anglican
Pertaining to, characteristic of, or held by, the high church party of the Church of England.
Catholic
Of or involving the Roman Catholic Church.
Anglican
A member of the Church of England.
Whether Catholics, Anglicans, or Calvinists.
Catholic
Of or relating to the universal Christian church.
Anglican
In a restricted sense, a member of the High Church party, or of the more advanced ritualistic section, in the Church of England.
Catholic
Of or relating to the ancient undivided Christian church.
Anglican
A Protestant who is a follower of Anglicanism
Catholic
Of or relating to those churches that have claimed to be representatives of the ancient undivided church.
Anglican
Of or pertaining to or characteristic of the Anglican church;
An Anglican Bishop
Catholic
A member of a Catholic church, especially a Roman Catholic.
Catholic
Universal; all-encompassing.
Catholic
Alternative case form of Catholic.
Catholic
(obsolete) Common or prevalent; especially universally prevalent.
Catholic
Embracing all.
Catholic
Universally applicable.
Catholic
Of universal human interest or use.
Catholic
(slang) Permissive of unprotected sex.
Catholic
Universal or general; as, the catholic faith.
Men of other countries [came] to bear their part in so great and catholic a war.
Catholic
Not narrow-minded, partial, or bigoted; liberal; as, catholic tastes.
Catholic
Of or pertaining to, or affecting the Roman Catholics; as, the Catholic emancipation act.
Catholic
A person who accepts the creeds which are received in common by all parts of the orthodox Christian church.
Catholic
An adherent of the Roman Catholic church; a Roman Catholic.
Catholic
A member of a Catholic church
Catholic
Of or relating to or supporting Catholicism;
The Catholic Church
Catholic
Free from provincial prejudices or attachments;
Catholic in one's tastes
Common Curiosities
Are Anglican and Catholic sacraments similar?
Many sacraments, like baptism and the Eucharist, are shared, but their understanding and practices may differ.
Which church was established first, Anglican or Catholic?
The Catholic Church predates the Anglican, which was established in the 16th century.
Who leads the Catholic Church?
The Pope in Rome is the leader of the Catholic Church.
Are Anglican and Catholic churches part of Christianity?
Yes, both Anglican and Catholic churches are branches of Christianity.
Can Anglican priests marry?
Yes, Anglican priests are allowed to marry.
Do both Anglican and Catholic churches have a global presence?
Yes, both have a widespread global presence with regional expressions.
What's the Anglican stance on the Pope?
The Anglican Church respects the Pope but doesn't recognize him as its religious authority.
Why did the Anglican Church separate from the Catholic Church?
The Anglican Church separated during the English Reformation due to political and religious disagreements.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
