Denomination Relations: Anglicans

In our ongoing series, “Denomination Relations”, Jason Scott explores the history, shared beliefs, and differences between Catholics and other Christian denominations. This week, he turns his attention to the Anglicans, a denomination with deep historical ties to the Catholic Church and a unique position in the Christian world.

Where Do Anglicans Come From?

Anglicanism originated from the English Reformation, driven by King Henry VIII’s desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon and marry Anne Boleyn. When the Pope refused to grant the divorce, Henry VIII took drastic action: declaring himself the supreme head of the Church of England in 1534.

Over time, the Anglican Church developed its own distinct identity, characterised by a broad theological spectrum ranging from evangelical to Anglo-Catholic traditions.

The Anglican Communion, as it is known today, emerged from this foundation, spreading globally through British colonialism. It is now a diverse family of churches, united by common worship and a shared history, yet allowing for a broad range of theological perspectives.

Where Do We Agree?

As Catholics, we share fundamental beliefs with Anglicans: the Trinity, Christ’s divinity and humanity, and the resurrection. We both affirm the Nicene and Apostles’ Creeds, which unite us in ecumenical gatherings. Baptism and the Eucharist are central to both our traditions, though our understanding of the Eucharist differs.

Where Do We Disagree?

From a Catholic perspective, the key disagreements with Anglicans are clear. Anglicans prioritise Scripture over the authority of the Pope, which we see as essential for the unity and guidance of the Church. Their rejection of papal authority is a significant divide.

On the sacraments, Anglicans recognise only Baptism and the Eucharist, and they do not uphold the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation. This is a fundamental difference, as we believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist through transubstantiation.

Furthermore, Anglicans allow married and women clergy. By contrast, the Catholic Church’s discipline requires its clergy to be celibate — at least in the Latin Rite, and even then with certain exceptions, such as clerics who converted to Catholicism — and in all Rites, the Catholic Church insists on the male-only priesthood.

Recent Steps Towards Unity

Despite these differences, progress has been made. The historic 1966 meeting between Pope Paul VI and Archbishop Michael Ramsey of Canterbury opened doors for dialogue. More recently, Pope Francis and now-retired Archbishop Justin Welby’s 2016 joint statement reaffirmed our commitment to unity.

The Anglican-Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC) has been crucial in this journey, producing documents that explore our theological commonalities and differences. Additionally, the establishment of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham in 2011 by Pope Benedict XVI has provided a pathway for Anglicans to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church while retaining elements of their Anglican heritage. This ordinariate has been a significant step towards unity, allowing former Anglicans to maintain their liturgical traditions within the Catholic Church.

As Catholics, we are committed to reuniting Christians and restoring full communion within the one true Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, to heal the wounds of centuries-old divisions.

Join us next week as we delve into our relationship with the Calvinists. And as always, trust the plan.