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'''The Episcopal Church''' is the official name of the Province of the [[Anglican Communion]] in the [[United States]].<ref name="ODCC">{{cite book

'''The Episcopal Church''' is the official name of the Province of the [[Anglican Communion]] in the [[United States]].

| last = | first = | authorlink = | coauthors = F. L. Cross (Editor), E. A. Livingstone (Editor)  | title =The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church, 3rd edition | publisher =Oxford University Press | date =13 March 1997 | location =USA | pages =554 | url = | doi = | id =  | isbn = 0&ndash;19&ndash;211655&ndash;X}}</ref><ref name="ColEn">{{cite web

The Episcopal Church considers itself a ''[[via media]]'', or middle way, between [[Roman Catholic Church|Roman Catholicism]] and [[Protestantism]].[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/visitors_8950_ENG_HTM.htm What makes us Anglican?Hallmarks of the Episcopal Church]

  | last =  | first =  | authorlink =  | coauthors =  | title =Episcopal Church

  | coauthors =  | title =The Protestant Face of Anglicanism  | publisher =William B. Eerdmans Publish Company  | date =1998  | location =Grand Rapids, Michigan  | pages =56, 69  | url =  | doi =  | id =  | isbn = 0802845975}}</ref> The Church was organized shortly after the [[American Revolution]] when it was forced to break with the [[Church of England]] on penalty of treason <ref name=hein>{{cite book |last=Hein |first=David |authorlink= |coauthors=Gardiner H. Shattuck, Jr. |editor= |others= |title=The Episcopalians |origdate= |origyear= |origmonth= |url= |format= |accessdate= |accessyear= |accessmonth= |edition= |series= |date= |year=2004 |month= |publisher=Church Publishing |location= New York|language= |isbn=0898694973 |oclc= |doi= |id= |pages= |chapter= |chapterurl= |quote= }}</ref> and became the first autonomous Anglican province outside the [[British Isles]]. Today it is divided into nine provinces and has extra-territorial dioceses in [[Taiwan]], [[Central America|Central]] and [[South America]], the [[Caribbean]] and [[Europe]]. The [[Episcopal Diocese of the Virgin Islands]] encompasses both [[American]] and [[British]] territory.

The Episcopal Church was active in the [[Social Gospel]] movement of the late nineteenth century and since the 1960s and 1970s has played a leading role in the progressive and liberal movements in church and secular politics.  For example, in its resolutions on secular issues the Episcopal Church has taken both sides on the abortion debate, opposed the [[capital punishment|death penalty]], and supported [[affirmative action]] and the civil rights movement. In some dioceses, openly homosexual men and women can be ordained; in others, same-sex unions are celebrated.{{cite web [http://www.integrityusa.org/FAQs/index.htm]

 

The Episcopal Church was active in the [[Social Gospel]] movement of the late nineteenth century and since the 1960s and 1970s has played a leading role in the progressive and liberal movements in church and secular politics.  For example, in its resolutions on secular issues the Episcopal Church has taken both sides on the abortion debate, opposed the [[capital punishment|death penalty]], and supported [[affirmative action]] and the civil rights movement. In some dioceses, openly homosexual men and women can be ordained; in others, same-sex unions are celebrated.<ref>{{cite web |title=Frequently Asked Questions |url=http://www.integrityusa.org/FAQs/index.htm |publisher=Integrity |accessdate=2007-06-19}}</ref>

In most dioceses, women are ordained to the priesthood and episcopate, as well as the diaconate. The current Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church is [[Katharine Jefferts Schori]], the first female [[primate (religion)|primate]] in the Anglican Communion.   

In most dioceses, women are ordained to the priesthood and episcopate, as well as the diaconate. The current Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church is [[Katharine Jefferts Schori]], the first female [[primate (religion)|primate]] in the Anglican Communion.   

The Episcopal Church communicates in English, Spanish and French because it has dioceses in Asia, Central and South America, and Europe.<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/3_SCECAC_reportbody_-_V2.pdf An example of an official Episcopal Church document in English, Spanish and French] Retrieved 29 August 2007.</ref><ref>[http://www.churchpublishing.org/general_convention/pdf_spanish_2003/1_Constitucion.pdf] 2003 Constitution in Spanish] Retrieved 1 September 2007</ref> In Spanish the church is called ''La Iglesia Episcopal Protestante de los Estados Unidos de América'' or ''La Iglesia Episcopal'' and in French ''L’Église protestante épiscopale dans les États unis d’Amérique'' or ''L'Église épiscopale''.<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/index_esn.htm Episcopal Church webpage in Spanish]</ref><ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/index_fra.htm Episcopal Church webpage in French]</ref>

The Episcopal Church communicates in English, Spanish and French because it has dioceses in Asia, Central and South America, and Europe.<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/3_SCECAC_reportbody_-_V2.pdf An example of an official Episcopal Church document in English, Spanish and French] Retrieved 29 August 2007.</ref><ref>[http://www.churchpublishing.org/general_convention/pdf_spanish_2003/1_Constitucion.pdf] 2003 Constitution in Spanish] Retrieved 1 September 2007</ref> In Spanish the church is called ''La Iglesia Episcopal Protestante de los Estados Unidos de América'' or ''La Iglesia Episcopal'' and in French ''L’Église protestante épiscopale dans les États unis d’Amérique'' or ''L'Église épiscopale''.<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/index_esn.htm Episcopal Church webpage in Spanish]</ref><ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/index_fra.htm Episcopal Church webpage in French]</ref>

The full legal name of the national church corporate body is the ''Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America'',<ref name=CandC /> and was incorporated by the Legislature of the State of New York and established in 1821. The membership of the corporation "shall be considered as comprehending all persons who are members of the Church".<ref name=CandC /><ref>[http://www.epischicago.org/EpiscopalChurch.cfm The Episcopal Church] Retrieved 7 July 2007  </ref>.

The full legal name of the national church corporate body is the ''Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America'',<ref name=CandC /> and was incorporated by the Legislature of the State of New York and established in 1821. The membership of the corporation "shall be considered as comprehending all persons who are members of the Church".

==History==

==History==

===The English Church in British North America (1497-1775)===

===The English Church in British North America (1497-1775)===

The Episcopal Church traces its history from its origins in the [[Church of England]]. It  stresses its continuity with the early universal Western church and maintains [[apostolic succession]].<ref name="lec">{{cite book | last =Sydnor | first =William  | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =Looking at the Episcopal Church | publisher =Morehouse Publishing | date =1980 | location =USA

The Episcopal Church traces its history from its origins in the [[Church of England]]. It  stresses its continuity with the early universal Western church and maintains [[apostolic succession]].

When [[John Cabot]] founded the first English colony in North America on 24 June 1497, he must have had some sort of religious service &mdash; it was St. John the Baptist's Day and the day was likely not a coincidence &mdash; and yet there is no extant record. In any case, Cabot sailed under the authority of [[Henry VII of England|King Henry VII]] and the English Church was still firmly Roman Catholic.<ref name=carrington/>

When [[John Cabot]] founded the first English colony in North America on 24 June 1497, he must have had some sort of religious service &mdash; it was St. John the Baptist's Day and the day was likely not a coincidence &mdash; and yet there is no extant record. In any case, Cabot sailed under the authority of [[Henry VII of England|King Henry VII]] and the English Church was still firmly Roman Catholic.<ref name=carrington/>

The first service read from the [[Book of Common Prayer]] on American soil occurred on 19 June 1579 in a harbor far north of [[San Francisco]], when the crew of [[Sir Francis Drake]]'s ship the [[Golden Hind]] landed. Drake named the new land [[Nova Albion]]  or [[New Albion]] and claimed it for [[Queen Elizabeth I]]. The landing site may have been near [[Astoria, Oregon]] or, speculatively, much further north in British Columbia. The exact location has never been certain but is

The first service read from the [[Book of Common Prayer]] on American soil occurred on 19 June 1579 in a harbor far north of [[San Francisco]], when the crew of [[Sir Francis Drake]]'s ship the [[Golden Hind]] landed. Drake named the new land [[Nova Albion]]  or [[New Albion]] and claimed it for [[Queen Elizabeth I]]. The landing site may have been near [[Astoria, Oregon]] or, speculatively, much further north in British Columbia. The exact location has never been certain but is

variously reported as between 48 degrees and 42 degrees north latitude, a range which includes most of Washington, all of Oregon, and a sliver of California. The harbor was reportedly at either, 48, 44, 38 1/2, or 38 degrees. Drake and his crew stayed in this now lost harbor for over five weeks, repairing the Golden Hind.<ref>[http://www.mcn.org/2/oseeler/drake.htm Sir Francis Drake]</ref><ref name=carrington/>

variously reported as between 48 degrees and 42 degrees north latitude, a range which includes most of Washington, all of Oregon, and a sliver of California. The harbor was reportedly at either, 48, 44, 38 1/2, or 38 degrees. Drake and his crew stayed in this now lost harbor for over five weeks, repairing the Golden Hind.<ref>[http://www.mcn.org/2/oseeler/drake.htm Sir Francis Drake]

[[Image:Firstchurchofjamestowne.JPG|thumb|250px|Interior of the First Church in [[Jamestown, Virginia]].]]

The Lost Colony of 1587 at Roanoke - the [[Roanoke Colony]] on [[Roanoke Island]] off of North Carolina - and the previous colony of 1585 in the same location - may have had recorded Church of England baptisms. There doesn't seem to have been any clergymen within the colonists and the references are vague. For example, one secondary text says that on August 13 1587, an aboriginal man called Manteo who laised with the colonists and surrounding people "was christened and declared Lord of Roanoke and Dasamonquepeuc as a reward for his many services."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://statelibrary.dcr.state.nc.us/nc/ncsites/English1.htm |title=First English Settlement in the New World |accessdate=2007-10-08 |accessmonthday= |accessdaymonth= |accessyear= |author= |last= |first= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date= |year= |month= |format= |work= |publisher=State Library of North Carolina |pages= |language= |doi= |archiveurl= |archivedate= |quote= }}</ref>

The Lost Colony of 1587 at Roanoke - the [[Roanoke Colony]] on [[Roanoke Island]] off of North Carolina - and the previous colony of 1585 in the same location - may have had recorded Church of England baptisms. There doesn't seem to have been any clergymen within the colonists and the references are vague. For example, one secondary text says that on August 13 1587, an aboriginal man called Manteo who laised with the colonists and surrounding people "was christened and declared Lord of Roanoke and Dasamonquepeuc as a reward for his many services."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://statelibrary.dcr.state.nc.us/nc/ncsites/English1.htm |title=First English Settlement in the New World |accessdate=2007-10-08 |accessmonthday= |accessdaymonth= |accessyear= |author= |last= |first= |authorlink= |coauthors= |date= |year= |month= |format= |work= |publisher=State Library of North Carolina |pages= |language= |doi= |archiveurl= |archivedate= |quote= }}</ref>

The propagation of the Church of England occurred in three ways. One way was by officers of ships and lay military and civil officials reading services from the [[Book of Common Prayer]] regularly when no clergy were present. For example, in the charter issued by Charles I for Newfoundland in 1633 was this directive:

The propagation of the Church of England occurred in three ways. One way was by officers of ships and lay military and civil officials reading services from the [[Book of Common Prayer]] regularly when no clergy were present. For example, in the charter issued by Charles I for Newfoundland in 1633 was this directive:

{{cquote|On Sundays Divine Service to be said by some of the Masters of ships, such prayers as are in the Book of Common Prayer.<ref name=carrington/>}}

{{cquote|On Sundays Divine Service to be said by some of the Masters of ships, such prayers as are in the Book of Common Prayer.

A second way was the direct appointing and employing of clergy by the English government on ships and in settlements.

A second way was the direct appointing and employing of clergy by the English government on ships and in settlements.

A third way was the employment of clergy by private 'adventurous' companies. The first Church of England [[parish]] was founded in [[Jamestown Settlement|Jamestown, Virginia]] in 1607 under the charter of the [[Virginia Company of London]].<ref>{{cite book | last =Sydnor | first =William  | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =Looking at the Episcopal Church | publisher =Morehouse Publishing | date =1980 | location =USA | pages =72 | url = | doi = | id =  | isbn = }}</ref> The [[Hudson Bay Company]] sent out its first chaplain in 1683 and where there was no chaplain the officers of the company were directed to read prayers from the BCP on Sundays.<ref name=carrington/>  In 1836, a Church of England chaplain arrived at the Hudson's Bay Company's [[Fort Vancouver]] now [[Vancouver, WA]]. This was the second to last Church of England clergyman on what would become American soil after the [[Oregon Treaty]] of 1846.<ref name=carrington/> The last Church of England clergyman vacated [[Fort Yukon]] when the United States government purchased the Russian territory in 1867.<ref name=carrington/> The U.S government took possession of Fort Yukon in 1869 although the Hudson's Bay post really shouldn't have been in the Russian territory at all.<ref name=carrington/> The chaplain had evangelized well to the First Nations and they carried on in their new faith autonomously for twenty-five years. Then the Episcopal Church sent a bishop and found that they were still praying for Queen Victoria - on American territory - and would not stop insisting that "...we shall continue to pray for Queen Victoria."<ref name=carrington/> Thus, England and the English colonists brought the church to all the American colonies.

A third way was the employment of clergy by private 'adventurous' companies. The first Church of England [[parish]] was founded in [[Jamestown Settlement|Jamestown, Virginia]] in 1607 under the charter of the [[Virginia Company of London]].<ref>{{cite book | last =Sydnor | first =William  | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =Looking at the Episcopal Church | publisher =Morehouse Publishing | date =1980 | location =USA | pages =72 | url = | doi = | id =  | isbn = }}</ref> The [[Hudson Bay Company]] sent out its first chaplain in 1683 and where there was no chaplain the officers of the company were directed to read prayers from the BCP on Sundays.<ref name=carrington/>  In 1836, a Church of England chaplain arrived at the Hudson's Bay Company's [[Fort Vancouver]] now [[Vancouver, WA]]. This was the second to last Church of England clergyman on what would become American soil after the [[Oregon Treaty]] of 1846.<ref name=carrington/> The last Church of England clergyman vacated [[Fort Yukon]] when the United States government purchased the Russian territory in 1867.<ref name=carrington/> The U.S government took possession of Fort Yukon in 1869 although the Hudson's Bay post really shouldn't have been in the Russian territory at all.<ref name=carrington/> The chaplain had evangelized well to the First Nations and they carried on in their new faith autonomously for twenty-five years. Then the Episcopal Church sent a bishop and found that they were still praying for Queen Victoria - on American territory - and would not stop insisting that "...we shall continue to pray for Queen Victoria."<ref name=carrington/> Thus, England and the English colonists brought the church to all the American colonies.

   

   

{{cquote|...that it was thought convenient, that some Prayers and Thanksgivings, fitted to special occasions, should be added in their due places; particulary for those at Sea, together with an office for the Baptism of such as are of Riper Years: which, although not so necessary when the former Book was compiled, ...is now become necessary, and may be always useful for the baptizing of Natives in our Plantations, and others converted to the Faith.}}

{{cquote|...that it was thought convenient, that some Prayers and Thanksgivings, fitted to special occasions, should be added in their due places; particulary for those at Sea, together with an office for the Baptism of such as are of Riper Years: which, although not so necessary when the former Book was compiled, ...is now become necessary, and may be always useful for the baptizing of Natives in our Plantations, and others converted to the Faith.}}

After 1702 the "[[Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts]]" (SPG) began missionary activity throughout the colonies.  The ministers were few, the [[glebe]]s small, the salaries inadequate, and the people quite uninterested in religion, as the vestry became in effect a kind of local government.

After 1702 the "[[Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts]]" (SPG) began missionary activity throughout the colonies.  The ministers were few, the [[glebe]]s small, the salaries inadequate, and the people quite uninterested in religion, as the vestry became in effect a kind of local government.<ref>{{cite book | last =Sydnor | first =William  | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =Looking at the Episcopal Church | publisher =Morehouse Publishing | date =1980 | location =USA | pages =72 | url = | doi = | id =  | isbn = }}</ref>

 

One historian has explained the workings of the [[parish]]:  

One historian has explained the workings of the [[parish]]:  

{{quote|The parish was a local unit concerned with such matters as the conduct and support of the parish church, the supervision of morals, and the care of the poor. Its officers, who made up the vestry, were ordinarily influential and wealthy property holders chosen by a majority of the parishioners. They appointed the parish ministers, made local assessments, and investigated cases of moral offense for referral to the county court, the next higher judicatory. They also selected the church wardens, who audited the parish accounts and prosecuted morals cases. For several decades the system worked in a democratic fashion, but by the 1660s, the vestries had generally become self-perpetuating units made up of well-to-do landowners. This condition was sharply resented by the small farmers and servants.|Clifton Olmstead|History of Religion in the United States<ref>{{cite book |last= Olmstead|first= Clifton E |authorlink=

{{quote|The parish was a local unit concerned with such matters as the conduct and support of the parish church, the supervision of morals, and the care of the poor. Its officers, who made up the vestry, were ordinarily influential and wealthy property holders chosen by a majority of the parishioners. They appointed the parish ministers, made local assessments, and investigated cases of moral offense for referral to the county court, the next higher judicatory. They also selected the church wardens, who audited the parish accounts and prosecuted morals cases. For several decades the system worked in a democratic fashion, but by the 1660s, the vestries had generally become self-perpetuating units made up of well-to-do landowners. This condition was sharply resented by the small farmers and servants.|Clifton Olmstead|History of Religion in the United States

The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel, with the support of the Bishop of London, wanted a bishop for the colonies. Strong opposition arose in the South, where a bishop would threaten the privileges of the lay vestry.<ref>{{cite book | last =Sydnor | first =William  | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =Looking at the Episcopal Church | publisher =Morehouse Publishing | date =1980 | location =USA | pages =72 | url = | doi = | id =  | isbn = }}</ref> Opponents conjured up visions of "episcopal palaces, or pontifical revenues, of spiritual courts, and all the pomp, grandeur, luxury and regalia of an American Lambeth" (''New York Gazette'' or ''Weekly Post Boy'', [[March 14]], [[1768]]). John Adams later explained, "the apprehension of Episcopacy" contributed to the American Revolution, capturing the attention "not only of the inquiring mind, but of the common people. . . . The objection was not merely to the office of a bishop, though even that was dreaded, but to the authority of parliament, on which it must be founded".<ref>Bonomi 1998, 200</ref>

The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel, with the support of the Bishop of London, wanted a bishop for the colonies. Strong opposition arose in the South, where a bishop would threaten the privileges of the lay vestry.  Opponents conjured up visions of "episcopal palaces, or pontifical revenues, of spiritual courts, and all the pomp, grandeur, luxury and regalia of an American Lambeth" (''New York Gazette'' or ''Weekly Post Boy'', [[March 14]], [[1768]]). John Adams later explained, "the apprehension of Episcopacy" contributed to the American Revolution, capturing the attention "not only of the inquiring mind, but of the common people. . . . The objection was not merely to the office of a bishop, though even that was dreaded, but to the authority of parliament, on which it must be founded".

On the eve of Revolution, a large fraction of prominent merchants and royal appointees were Anglicans—and were [[Loyalists]]. About 27 percent of Anglican priests nationwide supported independence, especially in Virginia. Almost 40 percent—approaching 90 percent in New York and New England—were loyalists. Out of 55 Anglican clergy in New York and New England, only three were Patriots, two of those being from Massachusetts. In Maryland, of the 54 clergy in 1775, only 16 remained to take oaths of allegiance to the new government (McConnell 2003). William Smith made the connection explicit in a 1762 report to the Bishop of London. "The Church is the firmest Basis of Monarchy and the English Constitution", he declared. But if dissenters of "more Republican . . . Principles [with] little affinity to the established Religion and manners" of England ever gained the upper hand, the colonists might begin to think of "Independency and separate Government". Thus "in a Political as well as religious view", Smith stated emphatically, the church should be strengthened by an American bishop and the appointment of "prudent Governors who are friends of our Establishment" <ref>Bonomi 1998, 201</ref>

On the eve of Revolution, a large fraction of prominent merchants and royal appointees were Anglicans—and were [[Loyalists]]. About 27 percent of Anglican priests nationwide supported independence, especially in Virginia. Almost 40 percent—approaching 90 percent in New York and New England—were loyalists. Out of 55 Anglican clergy in New York and New England, only three were Patriots, two of those being from Massachusetts. In Maryland, of the 54 clergy in 1775, only 16 remained to take oaths of allegiance to the new government (McConnell 2003). William Smith made the connection explicit in a 1762 report to the Bishop of London. "The Church is the firmest Basis of Monarchy and the English Constitution", he declared. But if dissenters of "more Republican . . . Principles [with] little affinity to the established Religion and manners" of England ever gained the upper hand, the colonists might begin to think of "Independency and separate Government". Thus "in a Political as well as religious view", Smith stated emphatically, the church should be strengthened by an American bishop and the appointment of "prudent Governors who are friends of our Establishment"  

===Revolution (1775-1783)===

===Revolution (1775-1783)===

In general, Loyalist clergy stayed by their Oaths and prayed for the king or else suspended services. <ref name=hein/>  By the end of 1776, Anglican churches were closing. <ref name=hein/>  An SPG missionary would report that of the colonies of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut which he had intelligence only the Anglican churches in Philadelphia, a couple in rural Pennsylvania, those in British –controlled New York and two parishes in Connecticut were open. <ref name=hein/>  Anglican priests held services in private homes or lay readers who were not bound by the oaths held Morning and Evening Prayer. <ref name=hein/>

In general, Loyalist clergy stayed by their Oaths and prayed for the king or else suspended services. <ref name=hein/>  By the end of 1776, Anglican churches were closing. <ref name=hein/>  An SPG missionary would report that of the colonies of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut which he had intelligence only the Anglican churches in Philadelphia, a couple in rural Pennsylvania, those in British –controlled New York and two parishes in Connecticut were open. <ref name=hein/>  Anglican priests held services in private homes or lay readers who were not bound by the oaths held Morning and Evening Prayer. <ref name=hein/>

Nevertheless, some Loyalists clergymen were defiant, in Connecticut John Beach conducted worship throughout the war, and swore that he would continue praying for the king. <ref name=hein/>  In Maryland, Jonathan Boucher took two pistols into the pulpit and even pointed a pistol at the head of a group of patriots while he preached on loyalism. <ref name=hein/>  Charles Inglis, rector of Trinity Church in New York persisted in reading the royal prayers even when George Washington was seated in his congregation and a patriot militia company stood by observing the service. <ref name=hein/><ref name=carrington>{{cite book |last=Carrington |first=Philip |authorlink= |coauthors= |editor= |others= |title=The Anglican Church in Canada|origdate= |origyear= |origmonth= |url= |format= |accessdate= |accessyear= |accessmonth= |edition= |series= |date= |year=1963 |month= |publisher=Collins|location=Toronto |language= |isbn= |oclc= |doi= |id= |pages= |chapter= |chapterurl= |quote= }}</ref>

Nevertheless, some Loyalists clergymen were defiant, in Connecticut John Beach conducted worship throughout the war, and swore that he would continue praying for the king. <ref name=hein/>  In Maryland, Jonathan Boucher took two pistols into the pulpit and even pointed a pistol at the head of a group of patriots while he preached on loyalism. <ref name=hein/>  Charles Inglis, rector of Trinity Church in New York persisted in reading the royal prayers even when George Washington was seated in his congregation and a patriot militia company stood by observing the service. <ref name=hein/><ref name=carrington>{{cite book |last=Carrington |first=Philip |authorlink= |coauthors= |editor= |others= |title=The Anglican Church in Canada|origdate= |origyear= |origmonth= |url= |format= |accessdate= |accessyear= |accessmonth= |edition= |series= |date= |year=1963 |month= |publisher=Collins|location=Toronto |language= |isbn= |oclc= |doi= |id= |pages= |chapter= |chapterurl= |quote= }}</ref>

===First Four Episcopal bishops (1784-1790)===

===First Four Episcopal bishops (1784-1790)===

When the clergy of [[Connecticut]] elected [[Samuel Seabury]] as their [[bishop]] in 1783, he sought consecration in [[England]]. The [[Oath of Supremacy]] prevented Seabury's consecration in England, so he went to [[Scotland]]; the [[Nonjuring schism|non-juring]] Scottish bishops there consecrated him in [[Aberdeen]] on [[November 14]], [[1784]], making him the first Episcopal bishop outside the [[British Isles]].<ref>{{cite book

When the clergy of [[Connecticut]] elected [[Samuel Seabury]] as their [[bishop]] in 1783, he sought consecration in [[England]]. The [[Oath of Supremacy]] prevented Seabury's consecration in England, so he went to [[Scotland]]; the [[Nonjuring schism|non-juring]] Scottish bishops there consecrated him in [[Aberdeen]] on [[November 14]], [[1784]], making him the first Episcopal bishop outside the [[British Isles]].<ref>{{cite book

  | last =Sydnor | first =William  | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =Looking at the Episcopal Church | publisher =Morehouse Publishing | date =1980 | location =USA | pages =73 | url = | doi = | id =  | isbn = }}</ref>   

  | last =Sydnor | first =William  | authorlink = | coauthors = | title =Looking at the Episcopal Church | publisher =Morehouse Publishing | date =1980 | location =USA | pages =73 | url = | doi = | id =  | isbn = }}</ref>   

[[Image:William White-Bishop Episcopal Church USA-1795.jpg|left|thumb|150px|Bishop [[William White (Bishop of Pennsylvania)|William White]].]]In return, the Scottish bishops requested that the Episcopal Church use the longer Scottish prayer of consecration during the Eucharist, instead of the English prayer. Seabury promised that he would endeavor to make it so. Three years later, in 1787, two priests - [[William White (Bishop of Pennsylvania)|William White]] of [[Pennsylvania]] and [[Samuel Provoost]] of [[New York]] - were consecrated as bishops by the [[Archbishop of Canterbury]], the [[Archbishop of York]], and the [[Bishop of Bath and Wells|Bishop of Wells]]. Thus there are two branches of [[historical episcopate|Apostolic succession]] for the American bishops:  

In return, the Scottish bishops requested that the Episcopal Church use the longer Scottish prayer of consecration during the Eucharist, instead of the English prayer. Seabury promised that he would endeavor to make it so. Three years later, in 1787, two priests - [[William White (Bishop of Pennsylvania)|William White]] of [[Pennsylvania]] and [[Samuel Provoost]] of [[New York]] - were consecrated as bishops by the [[Archbishop of Canterbury]], the [[Archbishop of York]], and the [[Bishop of Bath and Wells|Bishop of Wells]]. Thus there are two branches of [[historical episcopate|Apostolic succession]] for the American bishops:  

#Through the non-juring bishops of Scotland that consecrated Samuel Seabury.

#Through the non-juring bishops of Scotland that consecrated Samuel Seabury.

===The Church in the American Republic (1790–present)===

===The Church in the American Republic (1790–present)===

As the United States grew, new dioceses were established, as well as the [[Convocation of American Churches in Europe]].  After the initial [[Book of Common Prayer]] written for the new church in 1789, new revisions appeared in 1892, 1928, and 1979.   

As the United States grew, new dioceses were established, as well as the [[Convocation of American Churches in Europe]].  After the initial [[Book of Common Prayer]] written for the new church in 1789, new revisions appeared in 1892, 1928, and 1979.   

In 1856 (before the [[US Civil War]]) the first society for African-Americans in the Episcopal Church was founded by the Rev [[James Theodore Holly]]. Named ''The Protestant Episcopal Society for Promoting The Extension of The Church Among Colored People'', they argued that blacks should be allowed to participate in seminaries and Diocesan Conventions. The group lost its focus when The Rev. Holly emigrated to Haiti, but other groups followed after the Civil War. The current [[Union of Black Episcopalians]] traces its history to the Society.<ref>[http://www.ube.org/history.html UBE History]</ref> During the [[American Civil War]], an ''Episcopal Church in the Confederate States of America'' was temporarily formed from the dioceses within the seceded states, but this was viewed as a "separation and not a division", concerning no questions of dogma or practice (other than the prayers for Congress and the President).<ref>http://anglicanhistory.org/usa/jbcheshire/confederate1912/</ref>  

In 1856 (before the [[US Civil War]]) the first society for African-Americans in the Episcopal Church was founded by the Rev [[James Theodore Holly]]. Named ''The Protestant Episcopal Society for Promoting The Extension of The Church Among Colored People'', they argued that blacks should be allowed to participate in seminaries and Diocesan Conventions. The group lost its focus when The Rev. Holly emigrated to Haiti, but other groups followed after the Civil War. The current [[Union of Black Episcopalians]] traces its history to the Society.<ref>[http://www.ube.org/history.html UBE History]</ref> During the [[American Civil War]], an ''Episcopal Church in the Confederate States of America'' was temporarily formed from the dioceses within the seceded states, but this was viewed as a "separation and not a division", concerning no questions of dogma or practice (other than the prayers for Congress and the President).<ref>http://anglicanhistory.org/usa/jbcheshire/confederate1912/</ref>  

James Theodore Holly went on to found of the Anglican church in Haiti and became the first African-American bishop on [[November 8]], [[1874]]. As Bishop of Haiti, Bishop Holly was the first African-American to attend the [[Lambeth Conference]].<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/5888_58502_ENG_HTM.htm UBE History]</ref> However, he was consecrated by the American Church Missionary Society, an Evangelical Episcopal branch of the Church.

James Theodore Holly went on to found of the Anglican church in Haiti and became the first African-American bishop on [[November 8]], [[1874]]. As Bishop of Haiti, Bishop Holly was the first African-American to attend the [[Lambeth Conference]].<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/5888_58502_ENG_HTM.htm UBE History]</ref> However, he was consecrated by the American Church Missionary Society, an Evangelical Episcopal branch of the Church.

[[Samuel David Ferguson]] was the first black bishop consecrated by The Episcopal Church, the first to practice in the US, and the first black person to sit in the [[House of Bishops]]. Bishop Ferguson was consecrated on [[June 24]], [[1885]], with the then-[[Presiding Bishop]] of the Episcopal Church acting as a consecrator.  

[[Samuel David Ferguson]] was the first black bishop consecrated by The Episcopal Church, the first to practice in the US, and the first black person to sit in the [[House of Bishops]]. Bishop Ferguson was consecrated on [[June 24]], [[1885]], with the then-[[Presiding Bishop]] of the Episcopal Church acting as a consecrator.  

The Episcopal Shield, adopted in [[1940]], is based on the [[St George's Cross]], a symbol of [[England]] (mother of world Anglicanism), with a [[saltire]] reminiscent of the [[Cross of St Andrew]] in the [[canton (heraldry)|canton]] in reference to the historical origins of the American [[bishop|episcopate]] in the Scottish Episcopal Church.<ref> [http://www.kingofpeace.org/shield.htm Episcopal Shield]</ref>

]]The Episcopal Shield, adopted in [[1940]], is based on the [[St George's Cross]], a symbol of [[England]] (mother of world Anglicanism), with a [[saltire]] reminiscent of the [[Cross of St Andrew]] in the [[canton (heraldry)|canton]] in reference to the historical origins of the American [[bishop|episcopate]] in the Scottish Episcopal Church.<ref> [http://www.kingofpeace.org/shield.htm Episcopal Shield]</ref>

More than a quarter of all [[President of the United States|presidents of the United States]] have been Episcopalians (''see [[List of United States Presidential religious affiliations]]'').

More than a quarter of all [[President of the United States|presidents of the United States]] have been Episcopalians (''see [[List of United States Presidential religious affiliations]]'').

In 1976, the General Convention requested that ECUSA's Clergy Deployment Board determine if there were "racial inequities" in clergy placement. It also passed a resolution calling for an end to [[apartheid]] in [[South Africa]].  The General Convention asked ECUSA "dioceses, institutions, and agencies" to create [[equal opportunity employment]] and [[affirmative action]] policies in 1985. In 1991, the General Convention declared "the practice of racism is sin".<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 5. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]]. </ref> On [[June 16]], [[2006]], the Episcopalian House of Bishops endorsed a resolution apologizing for its complicity in the institution of slavery and its silence over “Jim Crow” laws, segregation and racial discrimination. By a unanimous vote, the House endorsed Resolution A123.<ref> [http://www.livingchurch.org/publishertlc/viewarticle.asp?ID=2189 Bishops Endorse Apology for Slavery Complicity]</ref>

In 1976, the General Convention requested that ECUSA's Clergy Deployment Board determine if there were "racial inequities" in clergy placement. It also passed a resolution calling for an end to [[apartheid]] in [[South Africa]].  The General Convention asked ECUSA "dioceses, institutions, and agencies" to create [[equal opportunity employment]] and [[affirmative action]] policies in 1985. In 1991, the General Convention declared "the practice of racism is sin".<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 5. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]]. </ref> On [[June 16]], [[2006]], the Episcopalian House of Bishops endorsed a resolution apologizing for its complicity in the institution of slavery and its silence over “Jim Crow” laws, segregation and racial discrimination. By a unanimous vote, the House endorsed Resolution A123. [http://www.livingchurch.org/publishertlc/viewarticle.asp?ID=2189 Bishops Endorse Apology for Slavery Complicity]

===Recent controversies===

===Recent controversies===

Several issues have recently created tensions in the Episcopal Church, including the reliability of scripture and historic church teachings as reliable sources for Church doctrine and the exclusive claims of Jesus regarding salvation<ref>[http://www.episcopalarchives.org/cgi-bin/acts/acts_resolution-complete.pl?resolution=2003-B001 The Acts of General Convention 2003 of the Episcopal Church]</ref> and the definition of Christian marriage.<ref>[http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/articles/42/50/acns4259.cfm  The Archbishop of Canterbury's Presidential Address, paragraph 5.]</ref> The two most debated issues have been the ordination of women and the role of homosexuals in the church.

Several issues have recently created tensions in the Episcopal Church, including the reliability of scripture and historic church teachings as reliable sources for Church doctrine and the exclusive claims of Jesus regarding salvation<ref>[http://www.episcopalarchives.org/cgi-bin/acts/acts_resolution-complete.pl?resolution=2003-B001 The Acts of General Convention 2003 of the Episcopal Church]</ref> and the definition of Christian marriage.<ref>[http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/articles/42/50/acns4259.cfm  The Archbishop of Canterbury's Presidential Address, paragraph 5.]</ref> The two most debated issues have been the ordination of women and the role of homosexuals in the church.

But, she added, with a strong glint of humour, “they treated my predecessor (Bishop Frank Griswold) the same way they treated me.”

But, she added, with a strong glint of humour, “they treated my predecessor (Bishop Frank Griswold) the same way they treated me.”

<br><br>

<br><br>

And, since 14 primates refused to take part in a Eucharist with Bishop Griswold at a previous primates’ meeting, while only seven refused to participate with her in Dar-Es-Salaam, she figures progress is being made.<ref name=schorivancouver/>.}}

And, since 14 primates refused to take part in a Eucharist with Bishop Griswold at a previous primates’ meeting, while only seven refused to participate with her in Dar-Es-Salaam, she figures progress is being made.

====Women's ordination====

====Women's ordination====

In 1976, the General Convention amended Canon law to give women the right to be ordained to the priesthood. The first women were officially ordained to the priesthood that year. (Previously, the "Philadelphia Eleven" were "illegally" ordained on [[July 29]], [[1974]] in [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia]].<ref>The Philadelphia Eleven, and the consecrating bishops, are listed in the [http://www.ecusa.anglican.org/41685_3311_ENG_HTM.htm The Philadelphia 11 article on The Episcopal Church website] (retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]]).</ref> Other "irregular" ordinations also occurred in 1974, notably in [[Palo  Alto]]. These "irregular" ordinations were also reconciled at the 1976 GC.)<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 14. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]].</ref>

In 1976, the General Convention amended Canon law to give women the right to be ordained to the priesthood. The first women were officially ordained to the priesthood that year. (Previously, the "Philadelphia Eleven" were "illegally" ordained on [[July 29]], [[1974]] in [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia]].<ref>The Philadelphia Eleven, and the consecrating bishops, are listed in the [http://www.ecusa.anglican.org/41685_3311_ENG_HTM.htm The Philadelphia 11 article on The Episcopal Church website] (retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]]).</ref> Other "irregular" ordinations also occurred in 1974, notably in [[Palo  Alto]]. These "irregular" ordinations were also reconciled at the 1976 GC.)<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 14. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]].</ref>

The first woman bishop, Barbara Harris, was consecrated on [[February 11]], [[1989]].<ref> Bishop Harris is also the first African-American woman bishop. [http://www.episcopalchurch.org/5888_3916_ENG_HTM.htm ECUSA site]</ref> The General Convention reaffirmed in 1994 that both men and women may enter into the ordination process, but also recognized that there is value to the theological position of those who oppose women's ordination. It was not until 1997 that the GC declared that "the ordination, licensing and deployment of women are mandatory" and that dioceses that have not ordained women by 1997 "shall give status reports on their implementation".<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 15. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]]. </ref> This has not ended the controversy over women's ordination.  

The first woman bishop, Barbara Harris, was consecrated on [[February 11]], [[1989]].<ref> Bishop Harris is also the first African-American woman bishop. [http://www.episcopalchurch.org/5888_3916_ENG_HTM.htm ECUSA site]</ref> The General Convention reaffirmed in 1994 that both men and women may enter into the ordination process, but also recognized that there is value to the theological position of those who oppose women's ordination. It was not until 1997 that the GC declared that "the ordination, licensing and deployment of women are mandatory" and that dioceses that have not ordained women by 1997 "shall give status reports on their implementation".[http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf] From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 15. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]]. </ref> This has not ended the controversy over women's ordination.  

The 2006 election of Jefferts Schori as presiding bishop was controversial in the wider Anglican Communion because she is a woman. While most dioceses of the Episcopal Church ordain women as priests and bishops, the full Anglican Communion does not universally accept the [[ordination of women]]. She is the first and only national leader of a church in the Anglican Communion who is a woman. Previously Bishop of [[Episcopal Diocese of Nevada|Nevada]], Jefferts Schori is the 26th Presiding Bishop.  She was elected at the 75th General Convention on [[June 18]], [[2006]] and invested at the [[Washington National Cathedral]] on [[November 4]], [[2006]].   

The 2006 election of Jefferts Schori as presiding bishop was controversial in the wider Anglican Communion because she is a woman. While most dioceses of the Episcopal Church ordain women as priests and bishops, the full Anglican Communion does not universally accept the [[ordination of women]]. She is the first and only national leader of a church in the Anglican Communion who is a woman. Previously Bishop of [[Episcopal Diocese of Nevada|Nevada]], Jefferts Schori is the 26th Presiding Bishop.  She was elected at the 75th General Convention on [[June 18]], [[2006]] and invested at the [[Washington National Cathedral]] on [[November 4]], [[2006]].   

====Homosexuality====

====Homosexuality====

The Episcopal Church affirmed at the 1976 General Convention that [[homosexuals]] are "children of God" who deserve acceptance and pastoral care from the church. It also called for homosexual persons to have equal protection under secular law. This was reaffirmed in 1982. In 1994, the GC determined that church membership would not be determined on "marital status, sex, or sexual orientation".  The GC also discourages the use of [[reparative therapy]] to "change" [[homosexuals]] into [[heterosexuals]].<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 26-29. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]].</ref>  

The Episcopal Church affirmed at the 1976 General Convention that [[homosexuals]] are "children of God" who deserve acceptance and pastoral care from the church. It also called for homosexual persons to have equal protection under secular law. This was reaffirmed in 1982. In 1994, the GC determined that church membership would not be determined on "marital status, sex, or sexual orientation".  The GC also discourages the use of [[reparative therapy]] to "change" [[homosexuals]] into [[heterosexuals]].[http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf] From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 26-29. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]].</ref>  

Despite these affirmations of [[Gay rights in the US|gay rights]], the GC affirmed in 1991 that "physical sexual expression" is only appropriate within the [[monogamous]], lifelong "union of husband and wife."<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 23. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]].</ref>  Although some dioceses within ECUSA bless same-sex unions, the church as a whole does not.  

Despite these affirmations of [[Gay rights in the US|gay rights]], the GC affirmed in 1991 that "physical sexual expression" is only appropriate within the [[monogamous]], lifelong "union of husband and wife."<ref> [http://www.council-dwtx.org/GenConv/Parish%20conversation%20curriculum/2_2006_GC_session2_support.pdf From ''Synopsis of Social Teaching/Contentious Resolutions of the Episcopal Church'' (PDF)], from the ''Parish Conversation Curriculum'' for the 2006 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, page 23. Retrieved [[November 5]], [[2006]].</ref>  Although some dioceses within ECUSA bless same-sex unions, the church as a whole does not.  

The first openly gay priest, Robert Williams, was ordained by Bishop John Shelby Spong in 1989.<ref>[http://www.beliefnet.com/story/130/story_13022_3.html ''A Bishop Speaks: Homosexual History'' by John Shelby Spong, retrieved Nov 4, 2006.]</ref>  The ordination provoked a furor. The next year Barry Stopfel was ordained a deacon by Bishop Spong's assistant, Walter Righter. Because Stopfel was not celibate, this resulted in a trial under [[canon law]]. The church court dismissed the charges on [[May 15]], [[1996]], stating that "no clear doctrine"<ref>[http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom_epis2.htm The Episcopal Church And Homosexuality: Activities during 1996.]</ref> prohibits ordaining a gay or lesbian person in a committed relationship.<ref> [http://anglicansonline.org/archive/news/articles/1997/righter.html Anglicans Online: The Trial of Bishop Walter Righter].</ref>

The first openly gay priest, Robert Williams, was ordained by Bishop John Shelby Spong in 1989. [http://www.beliefnet.com/story/130/story_13022_3.html ''A Bishop Speaks: Homosexual History'' by John Shelby Spong, retrieved Nov 4, 2006.] The ordination provoked a furor. The next year Barry Stopfel was ordained a deacon by Bishop Spong's assistant, Walter Righter. Because Stopfel was not celibate, this resulted in a trial under [[canon law]]. The church court dismissed the charges on [[May 15]], [[1996]], stating that "no clear doctrine"<ref>[http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom_epis2.htm The Episcopal Church And Homosexuality: Activities during 1996.] prohibits ordaining a gay or lesbian person in a committed relationship. [http://anglicansonline.org/archive/news/articles/1997/righter.html Anglicans Online: The Trial of Bishop Walter Righter].

The first openly homosexual bishop, Gene Robinson, was elected on [[June 7]] [[2003]] at St. Paul's Church in Concord, New Hampshire. Thirty-nine clergy votes and 83 lay votes was the threshold necessary to elect a bishop in the Diocese of New Hampshire at that time. The clergy voted 58 votes for Robinson and the laity voted 96 for Robinson on the second ballot.  Consent to the election of Robinson was given at the 2003 General Convention. The House of Bishops voted in the affirmative, with 62 in favor, 43 opposed, and 2 abstaining. The House of Deputies, which consists of laypersons and priests, also voted in the affirmative: the laity voted 63 in favor, 32 opposed, and 13 divided; the clergy voted 65 in favor, 31 opposed, and 12 divided. Robinson was consecrated on [[November 2]], [[2003]] in the presence of Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold and 47 bishops.<ref>{{cite book |last=Adams |first=Elizabeth |authorlink= |coauthors= |editor= |others= |title=Going to Heaven: The Life and Election of Bishop Gene Robinson |origdate= |origyear= |origmonth= |url= |format= |accessdate= |accessyear= |accessmonth= |edition= |series= |date= |year=2006 |month= |publisher=Soft Skull Press |location=Brooklyn, NY |language= |isbn=1933368225 |oclc= |doi= |id= |pages= |chapter= |chapterurl= |quote= }}</ref> Since the ratification of Robinson as bishop, some clergy and lay members have left the Episcopal Church (see [[Anglican realignment]]). In October 2003, an emergency meeting of the Anglican primates (the heads of the Anglican Communion's 38 member churches) was convened. The meeting's final communique included the warning that if Robinson's consecration proceeded, it would "tear the fabric of the communion at its deepest level."<ref>[http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/articles/36/25/acns3633.html Anglican Communion News Service]</ref>  

The first openly homosexual bishop, Gene Robinson, was elected on [[June 7]] [[2003]] at St. Paul's Church in Concord, New Hampshire. Thirty-nine clergy votes and 83 lay votes was the threshold necessary to elect a bishop in the Diocese of New Hampshire at that time. The clergy voted 58 votes for Robinson and the laity voted 96 for Robinson on the second ballot.  Consent to the election of Robinson was given at the 2003 General Convention. The House of Bishops voted in the affirmative, with 62 in favor, 43 opposed, and 2 abstaining. The House of Deputies, which consists of laypersons and priests, also voted in the affirmative: the laity voted 63 in favor, 32 opposed, and 13 divided; the clergy voted 65 in favor, 31 opposed, and 12 divided. Robinson was consecrated on [[November 2]], [[2003]] in the presence of Presiding Bishop Frank Griswold and 47 bishops.<ref>{{cite book |last=Adams |first=Elizabeth |authorlink= |coauthors= |editor= |others= |title=Going to Heaven: The Life and Election of Bishop Gene Robinson |origdate= |origyear= |origmonth= |url= |format= |accessdate= |accessyear= |accessmonth= |edition= |series= |date= |year=2006 |month= |publisher=Soft Skull Press |location=Brooklyn, NY |language= |isbn=1933368225 |oclc= |doi= |id= |pages= |chapter= |chapterurl= |quote= }}</ref> Since the ratification of Robinson as bishop, some clergy and lay members have left the Episcopal Church (see [[Anglican realignment]]). In October 2003, an emergency meeting of the Anglican primates (the heads of the Anglican Communion's 38 member churches) was convened. The meeting's final communique included the warning that if Robinson's consecration proceeded, it would "tear the fabric of the communion at its deepest level."<ref>[http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/articles/36/25/acns3633.html Anglican Communion News Service]</ref>  

== Membership==

== Membership==

Total membership of active baptized members is exactly 2,369,477 (this is the figure for all dioceses, the figure for the United States itself is 2,205,376) as counted by the Episcopal Church from all submitted parochial reports for [[as of 2005|2005 - the latest year available]].<ref name=RedBook2005>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/2005_Red_Book_Table_of_Statistics_by_Prov_Diocese.pdf From 2005 Parochial Reports. Source: The General Convention Office as of January 2007] Retrieved [[25 October]] [[2007]]</ref>

Total membership of active baptized members is exactly 2,369,477 (this is the figure for all dioceses, the figure for the United States itself is 2,205,376) as counted by the Episcopal Church from all submitted parochial reports for [[as of 2005|2005 - the latest year available]]. [http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/2005_Red_Book_Table_of_Statistics_by_Prov_Diocese.pdf]  

In recent years many mainline denominations have experienced a decline in membership.<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/3577_60792_ENG_HTM.htm Mainline Protestant churches no longer dominate]</ref> Once changes in how membership is counted are taken into consideration, the Episcopal Church's membership numbers were broadly flat throughout the 1990s and into the first couple of years of the 21st century.<ref name =RedBook2005 /><ref name=GrowthReport2004>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/2004GrowthReport(1).pdf Is the Episcopal Church Growing (or Declining)? by by C. Kirk Hadaway Director of Research, The Episcopal Church Center], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref><ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/3577_55181_ENG_HTM.htm Q&A Context, analysis on Church membership statistics], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref><ref name=fastfacts2005>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/Domestic_FAST_FACTS_2005.pdf Episcopal Fast Facts: 2005], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref><ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/Text_Summary_of_Episcopal_Statistics_2005.pdf Overview of Membership, Attendance and Giving Trends in the Episcopal Church], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref>  However, figures show a "precipitous" fall of almost 115,000 members for the years 2003–5, largely as the result of conflict of the various controversies engulfing the Church.<ref>[http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=2566, "Episcopal membership loss 'precipitous'"], [[The Christian Century]], [[14 November]] [[2006]], retrieved [[2007-10-27]]</ref>

In recent years many mainline denominations have experienced a decline in membership. [http://www.episcopalchurch.org/3577_60792_ENG_HTM.htm Mainline Protestant churches no longer dominate] Once changes in how membership is counted are taken into consideration, the Episcopal Church's membership numbers were broadly flat throughout the 1990s and into the first couple of years of the 21st century.<ref name =RedBook2005 /><ref name=GrowthReport2004>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/2004GrowthReport(1).pdf Is the Episcopal Church Growing (or Declining)? by by C. Kirk Hadaway Director of Research, The Episcopal Church Center], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref><ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/3577_55181_ENG_HTM.htm Q&A Context, analysis on Church membership statistics], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref><ref name=fastfacts2005>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/Domestic_FAST_FACTS_2005.pdf Episcopal Fast Facts: 2005], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref><ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/documents/Text_Summary_of_Episcopal_Statistics_2005.pdf Overview of Membership, Attendance and Giving Trends in the Episcopal Church], retrieved [[2007-10-25]]</ref>  However, figures show a "precipitous" fall of almost 115,000 members for the years 2003–5, largely as the result of conflict of the various controversies engulfing the Church.<ref>[http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=2566, "Episcopal membership loss 'precipitous'"], [[The Christian Century]], [[14 November]] [[2006]], retrieved [[2007-10-27]]</ref>

==Structure==

==Structure==

Varying degrees of liturgical practice prevail within the church, and one finds a variety of worship styles: traditional hymns and anthems, praise and worship music, Anglican chant, liturgical dance, charismatic hand movements, vested clergy, and clergy in street clothing. As varied as services can be, the central binding aspect is the Book of Common Prayer or supplemental liturgies.   

Varying degrees of liturgical practice prevail within the church, and one finds a variety of worship styles: traditional hymns and anthems, praise and worship music, Anglican chant, liturgical dance, charismatic hand movements, vested clergy, and clergy in street clothing. As varied as services can be, the central binding aspect is the Book of Common Prayer or supplemental liturgies.   

Often a congregation or a particular service will be referred to as ''Low Church'' or ''High Church''.  In theory:

Often a congregation or a particular service will be referred to as ''Low Church'' or ''High Church''.  In theory:

:'''[[High Church]]''', especially the ''very'' high [[Anglo-Catholic]] movement, is ritually inclined towards embellishments such as incense, formal hymns, and a higher degree of ceremony. In addition to clergy vesting in [[alb]]s, [[stole]]s and [[chasuble]]s, the lay assistants may also be vested in [[cassock]] and [[surplice]]. The sung eucharist tends to be emphasized in High Church congregations, with Anglo-Catholic congregations and celebrants using sung services almost exclusively.

:'''[[High Church]]''', especially the ''very'' high [[Anglo-Catholic]] movement, is ritually inclined towards embellishments such as incense, formal hymns, and a higher degree of ceremony. In addition to clergy vesting in [[alb]]s, [[stole]]s and [[chasuble]]s, the lay assistants may also be vested in [[cassock]] and [[surplice]]. The sung eucharist tends to be emphasized in High Church congregations, with Anglo-Catholic congregations and celebrants using sung services almost exclusively.

==Doctrine and practice==

==Doctrine and practice==

The center of Episcopal teaching is the life and resurrection of [[Jesus Christ]].<ref>[http://www.episcopalchurch.org/visitors_16966_ENG_HTM.htm?menupage=43796 A Basic Introduction to Christianity] from the Visitor's section of the Episcopal website.</ref>  The basic teachings of the church, or [[catechism]], includes:

The center of Episcopal teaching is the life and resurrection of [[Jesus Christ]]. [http://www.episcopalchurch.org/visitors_16966_ENG_HTM.htm?menupage=43796 A Basic Introduction to Christianity] from the Visitor's section of the Episcopal website.</ref>  The basic teachings of the church, or [[catechism]], includes:

*Jesus Christ is fully human and fully God. He died and was resurrected from the dead.  

*Jesus Christ is fully human and fully God. He died and was resurrected from the dead.  

*Jesus provides the way of eternal life for those who believe.

*Jesus provides the way of eternal life for those who believe.

*[[Churches Uniting in Christ]]

*[[Churches Uniting in Christ]]

*[[Anglican realignment]]

*[[Anglican realignment]]

==Further reading==

==Further reading==