The Old Religion: An Examination into the Facts of the English Reformation

by J.L.C. Dart

The Reformation swept over western Europe like a great storm. In some places Catholic organization and traditions were completely destroyed. In England much that was rotten was swept away, together with things that were profitable and lovely. But the ancient Church of our country was left standing on the old apostolic it was neither blown into the Protestant fold nor left balancing on the fence. It remained recognizably the Church founded by St. Augustine and St. Columbia, the continuing Church of England, maintaining the ancient faith and the historic ministry, and administering Catholic sacraments. That is Mr. Dart's thesis. He is concerned not so much with what the English reformers desired to do as with what they actually did. Yet, basing his arguments firmly on the Ordinal and the Prayer Book, he shows that their deeds were consistent with their aims. This book is not against anybody or anything; it is pro-Church of England.

Genres: Theology

222 pages, Paperback

Published May 14, 2016

Reviews

[Caleb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably more like 3.5ish.

Overall, this was a really helpful book showing how the Anglican Church is in continuity with the historic Catholic faith, despite the claims of Rome and others.

However, he did at times seriously downplay that same continuity in groups such as the Lutherans. He also worked really hard to try and distance Anglicanism from any sense of having a "Protestant" identity at the time of the Reformation and I found that to be a bit of a stretch.

[Tynan Brooks]

Pretty so-so on this. Some strong arguments for the CoE's catholicity, but it's very polemical, makes some real leaps, and is too focused on England for my taste. I agree with the Anglo-Catholicism, but the arguments aren't always solid.

[Andrew Talbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent and dry book on the Catholicism of Anglicanism. He addresses RCC objections to this position (e.g. ordination, papal supremacy, the Eucharist) and shows them wanting. At the same time, it feels a bit like a little brother shouting, “I am too!”

[Bobby Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredibly insightful for any Anglican wanting to learn the justification of our beliefs. It is also very funny and sassy