The Episcopal Handbook

by Morehouse Publishing

The Episcopal Handbook provides historical and theological information about the Episcopal Church alongside fun-filled facts and practical tips for being a churchgoing follower of Jesus Christ. Complete with illustrations, the book presents a combination of vast truths, complex details, and bits of humor about the Episcopal understanding of the Christian life. This unique and handy resource is perfect for youth, adults, students, families, and all those interested in learning about much of what encompasses life in the church. Sections include:
• How to Stay Alert in Church
• How to be a Greeter (or Usher, or Acolyte, etc.)
• How to tell the difference between a “Vocation” and a “Vacation”
• How to Survive a Service in an Un-Air-Conditioned Church
• A brief history of the Anglican Communion
• How to Interpret “Controversial” Bible Passages and Remain Episcopalian
•…and dozens more!

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion, Spirituality, Faith, Christianity

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 9, 2008

Reviews

[Bill Eubanks · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful little book, quaint in some places, full of humor and very easy to read. Very helpful to young and old, to all who seek to peel away the seeming complexity of the Episcopal tradition. It's crammed with information and can sit on yourself as a reference book after reading. A small gem!

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a "beginning Episcopalian", I found this to be a very helpful book. In fact, I plan on buying my own copy to continue to refer to. I actually think there are sections in this book from which established church members could learn.

[Shaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought it was very approachable, and would be a good, simple introduction to someone who's new to the Episcopal faith. I was raised Episcopalian and I still learned a lot reading this! There were a lot of times when I wished for a more in-depth explanation, but I understand that is book was meant as a more light and easygoing introduction. A fun and easy read.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a fun little book, and informative.

[Rex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy-to-read introduction to The Episcopal Church, its history and practice.

[Emiliee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate how well the book is written for people not familiar with the faith. I’ve gone to 2 services at my local Episcopal church and it was quite confusing, so the Priestess lent me her copy of this in order to help square things away and come back with questions I have.
It’s a great read to get started into the simple things about the faith but it is a light read only skimming over topics so in need for further inquiry I recommend seeing a member or the priest in the area.
I appreciated the different sections and the terms Glossary towards the back, helping clear up words I didn’t quite understand. If you’re looking into an Episcopal church this is a great helping hand.

[Alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

I breezed through this book in one day, but The Episcopal Handbook is a decent reference for someone new to the Episcopal church. I have been attending Episcopal service for over two months now, and this book did answer some outstanding questions I had.

I agree with other reviewers that there it a certain amount of "filler" in this book, such as the top 10 Bible villains and heroes, but I found it useful to read these sections as additional insight into the unique Episcopal perspective on some of these topics.

The chart at the end of the book comparing various liturgical and non-liturgical denominations is also fascinating and useful.

This book is a fast read, but it is also a useful reference for those curious about or new to the Episcopal church.

[Tim Williams · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a funny little book. I mean, it contains sections on what to do when someone sits in "your" pew and whether coffee hour is the Episcopal Church's "other" sacrament. In general, though, can see where this book would be more helpful for folks coming from Baptist, Presbyterian, and Methodist backgrounds than from R. Catholic backgrounds, where liturgy and mystery are more prominent. In all, it does a good job showing how the Anglicans offer a wonderful middle way.

[Tina Hayes · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Episcopal Handbook" gives an informative and fun overview of the Episcopal Church. The chapters are short, to the point, and a dash of humor makes it fun to read as well. The history, worship services, and views are well explained. This is the perfect book for anyone wanting to joint the church.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A useful book to read, whether one is new to The Episcopal Church or have been a member for a long time. It has a lot of great information, presented in an often humorous way, about the culture and traditions of the church. It's definitely something that reflects the personality of this denomination.

[Lee McBride · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. As someone that has attended the Episcopal Church for a few years it was interesting to have an easy to understand explanation for a lot of things in the church that I just wasn't knowledgeable about. I really liked the glossary at the end that described a lot of the items used in the services. It was a nice and easy reference.

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good introduction to the Episcopal Church. Easy reading with anecdotes and stories along the way. The charts and graphs in the Kindle version don't work on ereader devices, but you can view them better through the browser on your computer.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Humorous but informational, light but thought provoking. As a returning Episcopalian, it was a great reminder of things I knew as a child and answered many questions I've had as an adult. Will keep this book handy as I raise my children in the Episcopal church.

[Kelsee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect introduction into Episcopal beliefs.... Written in a humorous, "survival-guide" style.

[Lisa Sellers · Rating 5 out of 5]

very helpful book- I have loaned it out and people find it very helpful also.