Anglican

Anglicanism is a tradition within Christianity comprising churches descended from or in full communion with the Church of England. It combines historical roots in the English Reformation with a worldwide communion of autonomous provinces, dioceses, and parishes that share common liturgy, formularies, and polity while respecting substantial regional diversity.

Origins lie in the English Reformation of the 16th century when the Church of England separated from papal authority. Key figures such as Thomas Cranmer helped craft a distinct liturgical and theological identity, culminating in the Elizabethan settlement and the Book of Common Prayer and the 39 Articles as foundational standards.

Anglican governance is episcopal and provincial. Each province is headed by archbishops or bishops; there is no single overarching pope. The Archbishop of Canterbury is recognized as the spiritual head of the Anglican Communion and chairs the Lambeth Conference, but authority over member churches remains locally exercised.

Worship in Anglican churches is liturgical and centered on the sacraments, especially Baptism and the Eucharist. The Book of Common Prayer and its successors guide daily worship and theology, while worship styles range from traditional to contemporary, influenced by regional practices.

Anglican churches span a broad spectrum, from evangelical to Anglo-Catholic and liberal. Doctrine and practice vary by province, including positions on ordination of women and same-sex blessings. The Anglican Communion emphasizes ecumenical dialogue and social action, with education, healthcare, and international development among its longstanding commitments.