Why Become Anglican/Episcopalian? Part 1

After being out of the Jehovah's Witness cult for over 8 years, why did I become Episcopalian?  This is a valid question, considering the plethora of church options available in America.  Therefore, I will create a list of what I appreciate about the Anglican tradition and why the Episcopal Church makes sense for me:

1. Weekly celebration of the Eucharist.  Growing up a Jehovah's Witness, only the 144,000 heaven-bound Jehovah's Witnesses could receive communion.  I have always had a strong desire for taking part in the Eucharist and the Episcopal Church celebrates that heavenly feast of the body and blood of Christ at least once a week.

2. Traditional worship and liturgy.  There is something very peaceful about worshipping in a liturgical church.  Sharing a common liturgical tradition with our Catholic brothers and sisters and a worship tradition that can be traced back to the very early church is reassuring.

3. Apostolic succession.  Our bishops and priests have an apostolic line that can be traced back to the Church of England and back through the Roman Catholic Church and back to the apostles. 

4. We are a sacramental church.  We have the 7 sacraments that assures us of God's grace and forgiveness for our sins. 

5. The Book of Common Prayer.  Everything that one needs to know about what Anglican's believe can be found in our prayer book.  The prayer book contains all of our rites and ceremonies, as well as, our theology and beliefs. 

6.  The Episcopal Church is an open and welcoming church.  All are truly welcome to the Episcopal Church, whether you are liberal, conservative, or moderate, you have a place in our church.  We appreciate having open and honest conversations and debate.  Growing Jehovah's Witness, the idea of having open and honest debate, as well as, diversity of belief, is a welcome change!

7. One's private devotions are up to you.  Private devotions are up to the individual believer.  Some pray the Rosary and some do not.  Some believe in private confession and some do not.  Nobody will force something upon you that goes against you conscience. 


This is part 1 of this entry, as there are many more reasons as to why I chose the Anglican church.  I hope you enjoyed this entry, feel free to leave any comments or ask questions!!