There have been many who have asked about the differences between the Protestant Episcopal Church USA and the Roman Catholic Church. Here, I will cover the most of the differences I can think of.
PRAYER TO THE SAINTS/BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Roman Catholics do ask the Saints and the Blessed Virgin Mary to intercede for them (pray on their behalf). They view the Saints and Mary as a mediatrix to God. Episcopalians are divided on this, because of our practice of personal theology. Some are like Catholics, some are like evangelicals/fundamentalists, and some are like Unitarians (belief that all religions are valid). However, the official doctrine of the Episcopal Church states that we do honor the Saints and Mary, we do not do so the same way as Roman Catholics. Note that it does not say anything about asking the saints to pray for us and with us.
THE ROSARY
Roman Catholics pray the Catholic Rosary. Episcopalians again are divided on this. Some pray the Catholic Rosary, some pray the Anglican Rosary, and some do not pray any rosary at all.
CONFESSION
Roman Catholics believe you must confess to a priest at least once a year. Episcopalians say "All may, none must, some should." This means that we do have confession to a priest available to whoever wishes for one, but it is not necessary.
HOLY COMMUNION
Roman Catholics believe that you may only partake of the sacrament if you are Catholic. And they believe in transubstantiation (that the Host literally becomes the Body and Blood in you). Episcopalians invite all who have been baptized in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to partake of the Sacrament... no matter what denomination they are from. We also believe in the literal presence of Christ in the Host, but we do not believe in transubstantiation.
THE PRIESTS
Roman Catholic priests can only be male and must be celibate. Episcopal priests can be either male or female, married or not married, and gay or straight. We also do not believe in the Pope.
If there are any other differences you would like to know about or any questions, please contact me at fatherwarf@yahoo.com
May the Peace of God be with you!
-Father Warf
Welcome to X-Treme Anglican, the blog by Father William Warf! Here you will find answers to some commonly asked questions, Fr. Warf's views on debated subjects, and simple prayers and devotionals for all Anglo-Catholics!
