Wednesday Word: Anglican Communion

In adult formation over the next several weeks, we're talking about a subject that is very close to my heart - The Anglican Communion.

Many of you, like me, grew up in Baptist circles. There are many former GA's, Acteens, and Royal Ambassadors among us! These were the equivalent of Baptist scouting programs for kids, but the focus was on missions. We did mission projects in our communities and learned about missionary work around the world.

While I was never a model GA or Acteen, I did learn through this childhood program to love the world. From an early age, I believed that God loved all people, no exceptions. I understood that there were Christians all over the planet seeking to do God's work.

When I became Episcopalian, I was thrilled to learn about the Anglican Communion. This is a network of 80 million Christians in over 160 countries who share a common religious heritage. Almost anywhere you go, you can find people whose worship and approach to faith is similar to our own. Because of this relationship, we have natural partners almost everywhere. Mission work for us involves supporting the efforts of churches who are already there.

The churches of the Anglican Communion are not all of one mind. We differ on many topics due to local culture, historical background, and experiences in the faith. Even when we disagree, though, the majority of churches within the Anglican Communion agree to walk together, which is a powerful witness.

Denny has put together a helpful series on Sundays at 9:30 based on conversations happening in the Anglican Communion about mission and evangelism, human dignity, science and faith, environment, and Christian discipleship. Our focus is on how we can respond faithfully in our own part of God's beloved world.

Blessings,
Grace