Anglicanas

Anglicanas is a Spanish-language term used to refer to members of the Anglican Communion, particularly in Latin American contexts where the Catholic tradition has historically dominated religious life. The word is the feminine plural form of “anglicano,” and it can denote both clergy and laypersons who identify with Anglican doctrine, liturgy, and ecclesiastical structure. In most Spanish-speaking countries, the term is employed in academic, journalistic, and ecumenical discourse to distinguish Anglican communities from Roman Catholic or Protestant groups.

The Anglican presence in Spanish-speaking regions dates to the 19th century, when missionary societies from the United Kingdom and the United States established churches in countries such as Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico. These churches are organized under the Anglican Province of the Southern Cone of America, the Episcopal Church’s Province 9 (Latin America), and other autonomous provinces. Anglicanas often congregate in urban centers, offering worship services in Spanish while maintaining the liturgical heritage of the Book of Common Prayer.

Culturally, Anglicanas have contributed to social initiatives, including education, health care, and human‑rights advocacy. Their theological stance generally emphasizes a middle way (via media) between Catholic sacramentalism and Protestant reform, allowing a broad spectrum of doctrinal interpretation. This flexibility has facilitated ecumenical dialogue with both Catholic and evangelical bodies.

Demographically, Anglicanas represent a minority within the broader Christian landscape of Latin America, comprising less than 1 % of the total population in most countries. However, the Anglican churches continue to experience modest growth through immigration, local conversions, and outreach programs. The term “anglicanas” therefore encapsulates both a religious identity and a growing community engaged in the social and spiritual life of Spanish‑speaking societies.