What We Believe
One Bible
The Reformed Episcopal Church emphasizes Scripture as "the rule of faith and life." The church rejects both skeptical liberalism that denies the supernatural and proof-text approaches. Scripture tells the story of God's covenant worked out through Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension. Described as "the breath of God," Scripture is prioritized above tradition and reason while respecting apostolic tradition. The Bible interprets tradition and practice.
Two Testaments
Both Old and New Testaments are essential for understanding God's redemptive work. The Bible's structure encompasses: prophecy of redemption in Christ, Christ's incarnation and resurrection, and apostolic interpretation. The church rehearses the Ten Commandments at every Eucharist. Christ's Church stands on "the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ being the chief cornerstone." The Apocrypha holds supplementary value but cannot establish doctrine; the testaments provide all necessary guidance for "life and godliness."
Three Creeds of the Historic Church
The Apostles' Creed, Nicene Creed, and Athanasian Creed serve as time-tested summaries of Church belief. These creeds enable Christians to confess faith "as it is in Jesus."
The Four Councils
Nicaea (325 AD), Constantinople (381 AD), Ephesus (431 AD), and Chalcedon (451 AD) represent truly ecumenical authority within Anglicanism. These councils addressed fundamental doctrine regarding the Trinity and Christ's nature and work. Read more about the Ecumenical Councils.
The First Five Centuries
The apostolic period through Gregory the Great established worship patterns, ecclesial polity, and missionary foundations. Medieval abuses prompted the Reformation response.