March 11, 2026

Many people searching for a church in Rock Hill, SC, notice the terms Anglican and Episcopal and wonder if they are the same. While both share historic roots in the Church of England and the broader Anglican Communion, there are differences in governance, theology, and practice. At Resurrection Anglican Church in Rock Hill, SC, we often meet visitors curious about these distinctions.

Here are the top ten ways the Episcopal Church differs from the Anglican Church.

1. Governance and Structure

The Episcopal Church is the American branch of the Anglican Communion and has a national governing body called the General Convention.

The Anglican Church in the U.S. (often part of Anglican Church in North America or other Anglican bodies) is typically more congregational and diocesan in structure, with greater autonomy for local parishes.

2. Approach to Scripture

Anglican churches generally emphasize Scripture as the final authority, interpreted through historic creeds and reason.

The Episcopal Church tends to embrace a more progressive approach to interpretation, allowing for broader theological perspectives within the framework of Scripture.

3. Ordination Practices

The Episcopal Church ordains women as priests and bishops and increasingly supports LGBTQ+ clergy in leadership roles.

Many Anglican churches, including Resurrection Anglican Church, may hold to traditional interpretations of ordination, reserving certain offices for men.

4. Views on Marriage

The Episcopal Church permits same-sex marriage ceremonies within its congregations.

Anglican churches may hold to traditional marriage between one man and one woman, following historic biblical teaching.

5. Worship and Liturgy

While both traditions are liturgical, Episcopalians often have more flexible liturgy, sometimes allowing contemporary language and music in their services.

Anglican churches tend to adhere closely to historic liturgy, using resources like the Book of Common Prayer for a consistent worship structure, but still allow for contemporary styles of worship, particularly in music.

6. Theological Diversity

The Episcopal Church embraces a wide range of theological views, from conservative to liberal.

Anglican churches, particularly those in the Anglican Church in North America, often emphasize doctrinal consistency and historic orthodoxy.

7. Social and Political Engagement

The Episcopal Church is often actively engaged in progressive social issues, including advocacy for human rights, environmental causes, and social justice.

Anglican churches may focus more on biblical teaching, local mission, and evangelism, emphasizing faithfulness to Scripture.

8. Relationship with the Global Anglican Communion

The Episcopal Church is a member of the official Anglican Communion, but some conservative Anglicans feel it has diverged theologically from historic Anglican teaching.

Many Anglican churches in North America, including Resurrection Anglican Church, identify with the Anglican Church in North America, which emphasizes adherence to historic Anglican doctrine while remaining in fellowship with orthodox Anglican bodies worldwide.

9. Education and Formation

Episcopal clergy often attend seminaries in the U.S. with a broad, sometimes liberal theological training.

Anglican clergy typically study at seminaries that emphasize Scripture, historic Anglican teaching, and evangelism as core formation principles.

10. Approach to Evangelism

The Episcopal Church tends to emphasize service and social action as a means of outreach.

Anglican churches often combine proclamation of the Gospel, teaching, and evangelism with service, maintaining a balance between faith and works in mission.

Understanding the Differences

Both the Episcopal and Anglican churches share a rich heritage, liturgical worship, and a connection to the Church of England. The differences largely center on theology, ordination, governance, and cultural engagement.

At Resurrection Anglican Church in Rock Hill, SC, we aim to preserve the historic faith of the Anglican tradition, rooted in Scripture and the Book of Common Prayer, while welcoming all who seek to worship God reverently and faithfully.

Whether you are exploring Anglican or Episcopal worship, we invite you to visit and experience historic liturgy, faithful teaching, and a welcoming community.