The Annunciation refers to the conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit in the Virgin Mary and the announcement of this pregnancy by the angel Gabriel to Mary. The Church celebrates the feast on March 25, which is easy to remember when you realize it is precisely nine months before Christmas! This day reminds us…
Hymn Guide: Before the Throne of God Above
“Before the Throne of God Above” is a moving hymn of praise to the ascended and interceding Christ, the risen Lamb of God. When we sing it, we feel drawn up to heaven and given a glimpse of God’s forgiveness and grace. The hymn is, therefore, fitting not only for theย Ascension but also occasions of…
Transfiguration Sunday: A Rookie Anglican Guide
In the Calendar of the Book of Common Prayer (2019), the Transfiguration of Jesus is celebrated not once but twice! On the fixed calendar, it is celebrated on August 6th. On the movable calendar, it is celebrated on the last Sunday of Epiphany.
Polycarp: A Martyr Who Bore Much Fruit
In the providence of God, a person’s name sometimes accurately reflects the meaning of his life. Such is the case with Polycarp, the 2nd-century bishop and martyr. Polycarp is a Greek name that means many (poly) fruits (carp), and in light of scripture, this is an especially appropriate name. Jesus himself said: Truly, truly, I…
The Nicene Creed: A Rookie Anglican Guide
First drafted by bishops gathered at the Council of Nicaea in 325, the Nicene Creed is now affirmed by all major Christian denominations as a fundamental expression of the faith.
The Baptism of Our Lord: A Rookie Anglican Guide
Jesus began his public ministry with his baptism, administered by John the Baptist at the Jordan River. All four gospels narrate the baptism, which reveals Jesus as the Son of God and points to his work of new creation.
A Global Anglican Readership
Though we were founded in the United States and our readership is still majority American, we have seen growth in readership and financial support worldwide.
Hymn Guide: We Three Kings
“We Three Kings” is a festive carol that both tells the story of the magi visiting baby Jesus, and also explores the deeper significance of their gifts.
The History of the Christmas Collects
We expect the Christmas Collects to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and they do. But they also surprise us by repeatedly applying the birth of Christ to the life of the Christian believer. Because he is light, we can know light. Because he was born, we can be born again. Because he shared the life…
Hymn Guide: Good King Wenceslas
“Good King Wenceslas” is a Christmas Carol that celebrates generosity, sacrifice, and the power of holy imitation.