Understanding the Relationship
A lot of people assume Episcopalian and Christian are two separate things, but that’s not accurate. The Episcopal Church is a Christian denomination that comes from the Anglican tradition. It follows the teachings of Jesus Christ and believes in the Bible, just like other Christian groups.
When people ask about the difference, they are usually comparing Episcopalian beliefs and practices to other branches of Christianity, especially Evangelical, Catholic, and non-denominational churches. The real differences come from how Episcopalians interpret scripture, structure their church leadership, and approach worship.
I’ve personally noticed that Episcopal churches feel like a blend of Catholic and Protestant traditions. They keep a lot of the rituals and structure of Catholicism but are more open to modern interpretations of faith. Other Protestant churches, like Baptist or Pentecostal, focus more on personal salvation and spontaneous worship.
Beliefs and Teachings
Biblical Interpretation: Who Has the Final Say?
The Bible is central to all Christian denominations, but the way different groups read and interpret it varies.
Episcopalians believe the Bible is the inspired word of God, not necessarily the literal word. This means they acknowledge that historical context, cultural shifts, and human reasoning play a role in how scripture should be understood today.
For example, the Old Testament has laws about not eating shellfish, wearing mixed fabrics, and stoning people for adultery. Many Evangelical Christians say that some of these laws no longer apply, but they still take other parts of the Bible literally, such as verses about gender roles or sexuality. Episcopalians, on the other hand, look at scripture with a historical lens, asking, What was the original intention? and How does this apply today?
Evangelical and fundamentalist Christians often reject this flexible approach because they believe scripture alone is the final authority. They follow a principle called Sola Scriptura, which means the Bible is the highest and only rule of faith. Episcopalians, like Catholics, balance scripture with church tradition and reason, meaning they allow for theological discussion and evolving interpretations.
Faith and Salvation: A Journey or a Single Moment?
One of the biggest differences between Episcopalians and other Protestants is how they view salvation.
Many Evangelicals believe in a “born-again” experience, where salvation happens the moment someone accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior. They teach that faith alone is enough for salvation (Sola Fide) and that good works are just a result of faith, not a requirement.
Episcopalians see salvation as a lifelong process rather than a single moment. They believe faith and works go hand in hand. While faith is the foundation, the way someone lives out their faith matters. This belief is closer to Catholic teachings, which emphasize both grace and good deeds as part of salvation.
This is why Episcopalians place a strong focus on social justice, helping the poor, and ethical living. They believe that faith isn’t just about believing in Jesus—it’s about actively reflecting His love in the world.
Sacraments: More Than Just Symbolism
All Christians recognize baptism and communion, but Episcopalians, like Catholics, recognize seven sacraments:
- Baptism – A person is welcomed into the Christian faith.
- Holy Communion (Eucharist) – Receiving the body and blood of Christ through bread and wine.
- Confirmation – A deeper commitment to faith, usually in adolescence or adulthood.
- Reconciliation (Confession) – Confessing sins to a priest and receiving forgiveness.
- Marriage – A sacred bond between two people in the presence of God.
- Holy Orders – Ordination of clergy (bishops, priests, deacons).
- Anointing of the Sick – A special blessing for those who are ill or dying.
Most Protestant churches, especially Baptists and non-denominational groups, only practice baptism and communion, seeing the rest as traditions rather than sacraments.
One difference that stood out to me when I attended an Episcopal service is how seriously they treat communion. Many Protestant churches treat it as a symbolic act, where the bread and wine represent Jesus’ body and blood. But Episcopalians believe in “Real Presence,” meaning Jesus is spiritually present in the bread and wine, even if it doesn’t physically change. This belief is closer to Catholicism than to many Protestant churches.
Church Leadership and Authority
Episcopal Hierarchy: A Structured Church
Episcopalians have a hierarchical leadership structure that closely resembles Catholicism.
- Bishops oversee multiple churches in a region.
- Priests lead individual congregations.
- Deacons assist priests and work in community outreach.
The Presiding Bishop is the highest leader in The Episcopal Church but does not have the same power as the Pope in Catholicism. The Archbishop of Canterbury is the spiritual leader of Anglicanism worldwide, but he does not govern the Episcopal Church in the U.S.
In contrast, many Protestant churches reject hierarchical leadership. Baptist and non-denominational churches often have independent pastors, meaning each church makes its own decisions without answering to a higher authority. Evangelicals believe the church should be led by scripture and the congregation, not by a structured leadership system.
Women and Clergy: A Major Difference
One of the biggest shocks for people coming from Catholicism or conservative Protestant backgrounds is that women can be priests in the Episcopal Church.
The Episcopal Church started ordaining women in 1976, and today, many women serve as bishops, priests, and deacons. This is a major contrast to the Roman Catholic Church, where only men can become priests.
Many Evangelical and fundamentalist groups also oppose female leadership, citing biblical verses that say women should not preach. In Baptist and Pentecostal churches, it is still rare to see women as senior pastors.
I’ve personally noticed that this makes Episcopal churches feel more inclusive compared to many Protestant denominations. They believe God calls both men and women to ministry, which aligns with their broader commitment to equality and social justice.
Views on Social and Cultural Issues
LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Gender Equality
The Episcopal Church has taken a progressive stance on LGBTQ+ inclusion, which sets it apart from many other Christian denominations. Same-sex marriage is fully recognized, and LGBTQ+ clergy are ordained without restrictions.
This is a major contrast to Evangelical and fundamentalist churches, which often take a literal approach to biblical passages about sexuality and see homosexuality as sinful. Many of these churches refuse to perform same-sex weddings, and some require LGBTQ+ individuals to remain celibate.
Episcopalians believe that God’s love is unconditional and that all people are created in His image. This perspective has led to open debates with conservative Anglican groups that hold traditional views. Some Anglican dioceses have even severed ties with The Episcopal Church over these disagreements.
Political and Social Activism
Episcopalians are actively involved in social justice, advocating for racial equality, environmental protection, and economic fairness. Many clergy and members participate in protests, support refugee resettlement programs, and push for legislative changes on issues like healthcare and education.
Evangelical churches, in contrast, tend to focus on individual morality rather than systemic justice. Their political influence is often associated with conservative movements, particularly in the U.S., where they play a strong role in shaping policies related to abortion, religious freedom, and family values.
While both Episcopalians and Evangelicals believe in serving others, the Episcopal Church approaches activism with an institutional commitment, whereas Evangelicals often emphasize personal responsibility and private charity.
Worship and Church Atmosphere
Liturgy and Rituals
Episcopal services follow a structured liturgy, meaning they have a set order of prayers, scripture readings, hymns, and Holy Communion. The Book of Common Prayer is central to worship, guiding everything from daily prayers to wedding ceremonies.
This structured format makes Episcopal services feel similar to Catholic Mass. There is a deep sense of reverence, with formal vestments, incense, and symbolic gestures like crossing oneself. Many churches follow the liturgical calendar, observing seasons like Advent, Lent, and Pentecost with special readings and traditions.
Evangelical services, on the other hand, are more flexible and spontaneous. There is no required order of worship, and services can range from simple gatherings with acoustic music to large productions with rock bands, light shows, and energetic preaching. The focus is often on personal experience and direct engagement with God rather than tradition or ritual.
Music and Style of Worship
Episcopal music is deeply rooted in hymns and choral traditions. The organ is a central instrument, and many churches have professional choirs that sing classical sacred music. Some churches incorporate contemporary Christian music, but the overall tone remains formal.
Evangelical churches lean heavily on modern worship music. Many services feature praise bands with guitars, drums, and electronic keyboards. The lyrics are repetitive and emotion-driven, designed to create an immersive spiritual experience. This emphasis on contemporary music makes their worship feel more personal and engaging for those who prefer an informal setting.
Architecture and Church Design
Episcopal churches often have grand, cathedral-like designs with stained glass windows, high ceilings, and detailed artwork. The altar is a focal point, and the use of candles, vestments, and religious symbols adds to the sense of sacred space.
Protestant churches, particularly Evangelical and non-denominational ones, favor simpler designs. Many are housed in modern buildings that resemble auditoriums rather than traditional churches. The emphasis is on function rather than aesthetics, with large screens, comfortable seating, and multipurpose rooms.
Catholic Influence and Protestant Differences
Similarities to Catholicism
Episcopalians and Catholics share many traditions, including the use of liturgical vestments, formal prayers, and the recognition of saints. Both observe holy days, practice confession (though it is optional in the Episcopal Church), and hold the Eucharist in high regard.
The biggest difference is authority. Catholics recognize the Pope as the supreme head of the Church, while Episcopalians do not. Instead, they have a decentralized leadership model, with each diocese governed by its own bishop.
Where Episcopalians Differ from Other Protestants
Unlike many Protestant churches, Episcopalians embrace mystery and tradition in worship. They do not emphasize dramatic conversion experiences or require members to affirm a strict set of doctrinal beliefs.
Many Protestant denominations focus heavily on personal salvation, often with an emphasis on evangelism and missionary work. Episcopalians, while believing in evangelism, take a quieter approach. They focus more on how faith is lived out through action rather than conversion efforts.
A Church That Blends Tradition and Modern Thought
Episcopalians sit at a unique place within Christianity, combining elements of Catholic tradition with Protestant theological freedom. Their structured worship, commitment to social justice, and inclusive approach set them apart from both conservative Protestantism and traditional Catholicism.
While some find the Episcopal Church too formal compared to Evangelical churches, others appreciate its balance of historical faith and progressive values. It offers a space for those who seek a structured yet open-minded expression of Christianity, making it one of the most distinctive denominations in the Christian world.