What is Anglicanism?

A GLOBAL CHURCH

Anglicanism is a particular Christian tradition born out of the Protestant Reformation in England (16th century). As Anglicans, we value our place in a global communion of churches, our rich history of faith and practice, and a deep commitment to the authority of Scripture and the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The word Anglican actually means “of England.” As British Christians, compelled by the Word of God and the Holy Spirit, took their faith around the world, churches were established on every continent and in many nations. British pastoral leaders encouraged autonomy and collegiality with these daughter churches, and over time, separate “provinces” of the Anglican Church were established around the world.

Today, this communion of churches now consists of 38 self-governing provinces around the world, in 164 countries, with tens of millions of members. In many places, particularly throughout the Global South, the churches of the Anglican Communion are known for their vibrant faith in God and transformational presence within their communities. Church of the Word Anglican is a member of the Anglican Church of North America and the Diocese of the Mid-Atlantic.

 A LOCAL CHURCH

While we value our global and historical tradition, we also see ourselves as Christ followers first and part of the larger kingdom community in western Prince William County. We’re a small (for now) but rooted church. We’re part of the global Anglican Church, a vibrant and Christ-centered expression of the Christian church with a rich history that still shapes our beliefs, lives and worship today. We hold much in common with other orthodox and evangelical Christian traditions and are committed to humbly following Christ and the mission of his Church. We are actively building partnerships with other local churches and ministries that proclaim Jesus as Savior and Lord. We are committed to a local expression of the unity of the body of Christ across socio-economic, racial and denominational lines.