Questions and answersb Christian Faith, Anglican Church Questions & AnswersAnglican Church Initiative to invite diverse people into conversationbIn Anglican churches, the Anglican Church is an unfamiliar church. Some say the Episcopal Church is too traditional, others say it is a very progressive church. Someone else says that Anglicanism is too liberal. This impression may show some aspects of the Anglican Church, but it does not show the whole Anglican Church.Ian S. Markham, president of the Anglican Episcopal Church in Virginia, and CK Robertson, a theologian of the bishops In the form of questions and answers, describes what kind of faith the Anglican Church shares as a Christian church, and what characteristics it has as a Christian church. Questions range from questions about the foundations of faith, to questions of liturgy and churches, to societal ethical issues, and "answers" are the Anglican thoughtfulness rooted in the Bible, tradition, reason Following each question and answer, readers will be able to follow up on additional questions so that they can talk about the issue, along with an explanation of the overall context of the book, I have introduced a book to read more about the Bible, liturgy (worship), faith, church, ethics, spirituality, and history. It is a book that will guide all believers who do not hesitate to ask and answer questions on the journey of faith.
I am a cradle Episcopalian, and even after more than 60 years as a faithful congregant, I know there is much more I can learn. Exhibit A is this succinct, fact-filled book by C.K. Robertson and Ian S. Markham.
Episcopalians are Christians so we believe pretty much what all Christians believe, but there are some fine nuances and differences. That is where this highly-readable book is quite useful as it delves headfirst into the central tenets of faith in the Episcopal church.
After a brief history of the Church of England and the Episcopal Church in the United States, the book tackles the big questions of the church in that tried-and-true Q&A format.
And Robertson and Markham had me at the first question: Is there evidence that God exists? Brave men! They certainly aren't skirting the tough issues.
Other questions sure to pique the interest of Episcopalians (and possibly others): What is God like? Can I have doubts and still be an Episcopalian? Did Jesus rise from the dead? Did he ascend into heaven? Does prayer work? Is there evidence for life after death? Do Episcopalians allow birth control? Do Episcopalians take the Bible literally? Where do Episcopalians stand on issues like abortion and euthanasia?
Distinctly written for those whom Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry describes as "the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement," this book is fascinating, educational, and comforting. If you're an Episcopalian or you have ever wanted to know more about this particular denomination that is neither Roman Catholic nor Protestant, check out this book.
If you're thinking about becoming Episcopalian, or just want to know more, start with this short book. It's easy to read a few questions at a time or plow through the entire book. The book describes an attitude or a posture more than a set of beliefs as definitive of Anglican character, which I appreciate and which rings true to my experience.
A very complete range of Q&A's, from personal spiritual questions, to questions on the nuts and bolts of The Episcopal Church. Very helpful to this seeker!