An Introduction to World Anglicanism

An overview of Anglican origins, beliefs and practices, setting the tradition in its global contexts.

Who are the Anglicans? Where did they come from, and what are they up to? This Introduction to World Anglicanism will answer these questions, and on the way tell you about the foundations of their tradition, their beliefs, practices, current disputes, and why they argue so much.What is the nature of world Anglicanism in a postcolonial, global age? With talk of fragmentation constantly in the media, what does it mean to be 'Anglican'? This book presents Anglicanism as a conversation over time amongst a community of people held together by sets of practices and beliefs. The first part describes the emergence of Anglicanism and its foundations in older Christian traditions. The second looks at Anglican practices within the framework of changing understandings of mission, and focuses on liturgy, patterns of engagement with others, organisation and power in the church, and ministerial offices. There are two separate chapters on the ordination of women and homosexuality in the public life of the church. The third part, on beliefs, addresses the central question of knowledge and authority in Anglicanism, as well as ecclesiology, the nature of the church itself. A final chapter looks to the future.