Some frequently asked questions:
How can I learn more about what Anglicans believe?
Well, the best way is just to come worship with us. Anglicanism is based on the motto lex orandi lex crendi (as one worships, so one believes) and thus the chief Anglican expression of the Christian faith is the historic 1662 Book of Common Prayer, reflected in our modern 2019 prayer book. You can also learn about the core tenets of Anglicanism by reading the 39 Articles of Faith. Like the many confessions of faith of other Protestant denominations that emerged in the 1500s, these Articles can read a little on the “feisty” side, but they are a solid articulation of what constitutes Anglican fundamentals.
I’m not Anglican. Can I come to All Saints?
Of course! While some of our members are “cradle” Anglicans, many come from a wide variety of Christian denominations. Often, what draws people is the careful preaching of God’s Word, delving deeply into the text of the passage and showing how it points to Jesus. Sometimes, people no longer want to feel so anonymous, as with larger churches, and are drawn to the strong sense of community we have here at All Saints. While our traditional worship style (fixed prayers, vestments, music) strikes some as unusual at first, many come to find it a refreshing change of pace from more contemporary worship styles that feel more like rock concerts. At the end of the day, while we believe that Anglicanism offers a rich and dynamic tradition of worship, it is simply one expression of the Christian faith. If you are curious, give us a try.
I am a lapsed Roman Catholic, but I’m feeling drawn to the Christian faith. Would I be happy at an Anglican church?
It’s very possible. Many lapsed and/or divorced Roman Catholics find comfort and a new experience of faith in Anglican contexts, where often much feels familiar (e.g. the liturgy and worship style) but there is also a much needed emphasis on God’s one-way, unmerited, unconditional grace, forgiveness and love.
I am not Anglican. Am I able to receive communion at All Saints?
The Lord’s Table is not a particularly Anglican table — it is the Lord’s. If you are a believing (however struggling), baptized Christian, who is old enough to understand (as much as anyone can) what Holy Communion means, you are welcome to receive at All Saints. If you are not baptized but are interested in being baptized, please speak with one of our clergy.
Can I be baptized at All Saints?
If you have never been baptized (even in another denomination) and are interested in becoming a member of our All Saints church family, we would love to talk with you about baptism. Just speak with one of our clergy.
Can I get my child baptized at All Saints?
We are always delighted to baptize children into new life in Jesus Christ and our church family! However, it is important to understand that baptism is not a magical spell. It is about entry into Christ’s Church and it entails a promise on the part of the parents and sponsors to raise the newly baptized child in the faith of the church. Baptizing your family at All Saints means becoming a part of our All Saints family, which we would love for you to do! If you are interested, please do speak with one of clergy.
Should you call Anglican ministers “priests”?
You can, if you like. The Greek word in the New Testament is “presbyter,” which means “pastor” or “elder.” In Old English, the word was shortened to “prest,” which became “priest.” However, you are free to use any of the typical terms: presbyter, pastor, minister, priest.