As both a therapist and a parishioner, I have watched many weary believers seek refuge in liturgical traditions—drawn by beauty, order, and a sense of rootedness after years of spiritual fatigue within politicized or performance-driven church cultures. I have seen institutions rise to moments of grace and stumble into failure. The difference often lies not…
Justice Delayed is Justice Denied: The Importance of Speed in Church Discipline
Speed is an essential quality of effective church discipline. Speed is not merely helpful; rather, speed is essential. We find this principle grounded in Biblical teaching, English common law, the American Constitution, and contemporary practice. The saying is true (and worthy of full acceptance): when justice is delayed, justice is denied. Moreover, the church’s recent…
Women Bishops and Reception: An Occasion for Rethinking
Editor’s Note: The Rev. Dr. Stephen Noll, now a board member of Anglican Compass, also served from 2015 to 2020 as the Convener of the GAFCON Task Force on Women in the Episcopate. In 2017, this Task Force issued a recommendation for a moratorium on the consecration of women bishops. In this article, we share Dr. Noll’s 2019 essay…
Does the Pope Matter for Anglicans?
Jesus once asked his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” It was Peter—bold, impetuous Peter—who stepped forward with the answer: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” In response, Jesus made a staggering promise: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.” (Matthew 16:18). It was…
A Communion of Sound Doctrine: Reflections on the Archbishop’s Investiture
I had the privilege of traveling to South Carolina for the investiture of our new archbishop, Steve Wood. In Charleston, I called an UBER and asked to go to St. Andrew’s, the parish Archbishop Wood has pastored over the last 24 years. But when we arrived at St. Andrew’s, few cars were in the parking…
Archbishop Steve Wood: The Pastor Primate
We ask Steve Wood his pastoral experience will inform his leadership as Archbishop and Primate of the Anglican Church in North America.
Why Do Bishops Wear Purple?
Why do bishops wear purple? As a symbol of authority, sobriety, and boldness in the gospel. Please note: this article offers a theological rationale for the practice rather than a historical explanation. As a historical matter, Anglican bishops have more commonly worn scarlet, black, and white; episcopal purple was a relatively recent development. Purple and…
Everywhere Forward: The Legacy of Archbishop Foley Beach
“Forward. Always Forward. Everywhere Forward.” Archbishop Beach used these words at the beginning of his tenure as Archbishop, borrowed from the motto of Saint Vincent College. Now that he concludes his tenure, it is fitting to reflect on his remarkable journey, together with the breadth of his ministry at home and abroad. Guided by his…
Provincial Assembly: A Rookie Anglican Guide
The Provincial Assembly is a gathering of Anglicans from across the province. Its purpose is to conduct business under the Holy Spirit and the Scriptures, encourage one another in gospel mission, enjoy fellowship, and celebrate the Eucharist. In the Anglican Church of North America, the Provincial Assembly meets at least once every five years, at…
The Bishops’ Conclave: A Rookie Anglican Guide
What is a conclave? Put simply, a conclave is a private meeting of bishops gathered to select a new archbishop or for other important business. The conclave’s Biblical prototype is the apostles’ gathering, on the first Easter evening, behind a locked door. Theologically, a conclave puts emphasis on Christ as the key. Etymology of the…
