Compare Christian Denominations
Anglican and Episcopal and Catholic compared
God and the Bible
Trinity
Anglican and Episcopal
And in unity of this Godhead there be three Persons, of one substance, power, and eternity; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
Catholic
The Trinity is One. We do not confess three Gods, but one God in three persons, the "consubstantial Trinity".
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 253
Our article: Jehovah’s Witnesses vs Catholics: How the Two Faiths Differ
Authority
Anglican and Episcopal
Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation: so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man, that it should be believed as an article of the Faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article VI
Our article: Episcopal vs Catholic: The Real Differences, Compared
Catholic
It is clear therefore that, in the supremely wise arrangement of God, sacred Tradition, Sacred Scripture and the Magisterium of the Church are so connected and associated that one of them cannot stand without the others.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 95
Our article: Episcopal vs Catholic: The Real Differences, Compared
Revelation today
Anglican and Episcopal
Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation: so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man, that it should be believed as an article of the Faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation.
Catholic
"The Christian economy, therefore, since it is the new and definitive Covenant, will never pass away; and no new public revelation is to be expected before the glorious manifestation of our Lord Jesus Christ."
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 66
Our article: Iglesia ni Cristo vs Catholic: The Key Differences, Starting With Who Jesus Is
Books of the Bible
Anglican and Episcopal
In the name of the holy Scripture we do understand those Canonical Books of the Old and New Testament, of whose authority was never any doubt in the Church.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article VI
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
The Church accepts and venerates as inspired the 46 books of the Old Testament and the 27 books of the New.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 138
Our article: Protestant vs Catholic: How Their Beliefs and Worship Differ
How the Bible was written
Anglican and Episcopal
We call them the Word of God because God inspired their human authors and because God still speaks to us through the Bible.
From Book of Common Prayer 1979 (Episcopal Church), Catechism: The Holy Scriptures
Our article: Lutheran vs. Anglican Beliefs
Catholic
God inspired the human authors of the sacred books. "To compose the sacred books, God chose certain men who, all the while he employed them in this task, made full use of their own faculties and powers so that, though he acted in them and by them, it was as true authors that they consigned to writing whatever he wanted written, and no more."
How the Bible was kept
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
In the name of the holy Scripture we do understand those Canonical Books of the Old and New Testament, of whose authority was never any doubt in the Church.
Catholic
But since the word of God should be accessible at all times, the Church by her authority and with maternal concern sees to it that suitable and correct translations are made into different languages, especially from the original texts of the sacred books.
Bible without error
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
I do believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God, and to contain all things necessary to salvation; and I do solemnly engage to conform to the Doctrine, Discipline, and Worship of The Episcopal Church.
From Episcopal Church, Constitution, Article VIII (declaration made at ordination)
Catholic
The inspired books teach the truth. "Since therefore all that the inspired authors or sacred writers affirm should be regarded as affirmed by the Holy Spirit, we must acknowledge that the books of Scripture firmly, faithfully, and without error teach that truth which God, for the sake of our salvation, wished to see confided to the Sacred Scriptures."
Creation
Anglican and Episcopal
That the theory of evolution provides a fruitful and unifying scientific explanation for the emergence of life on earth, that many theological interpretations of origins can readily embrace an evolutionary outlook, and that an acceptance of evolution is entirely compatible with an authentic and living Christian faith
From Episcopal Church, General Convention 2006, Resolution A129
Catholic
Evolution in nature does not conflict with the notion of Creation, because evolution presupposes the creation of beings who evolve.
From Pope Francis, address to the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, 27 October 2014
Our article: Do Catholics Believe in Evolution? The Church Allows It, With Two Limits
The Holy Spirit's origin
Anglican and Episcopal
The Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and the Son, is of one substance, majesty, and glory, with the Father and the Son, very and eternal God.
From Thirty-nine Articles, Article V (Church of England)
Our article: What Is the Filioque? The Latin Word Added to the Nicene Creed
Catholic
The Latin tradition of the Creed confesses that the Spirit "proceeds from the Father and the Son (filioque)".
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 246
Our article: Byzantine Catholic vs Roman Catholic: One Church, Two Ways of Worship
Salvation
Salvation
Anglican and Episcopal
We are accounted righteous before God, only for the merit of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ by Faith, and not for our own works or deservings: Wherefore, that we are justified by Faith only is a most wholesome Doctrine, and very full of comfort, as more largely is expressed in the Homily of Justification.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XI
Our article: Anglican vs Protestant: Is the Anglican Church Protestant? Yes, by History and Law
Catholic
Justification is conferred in Baptism, the sacrament of faith. It conforms us to the righteousness of God, who makes us inwardly just by the power of his mercy.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1992
Our article: Baptist vs Catholic Beliefs: Baptism, Communion, the Pope and Salvation
Losing salvation
Anglican and Episcopal
After we have received the Holy Ghost, we may depart from grace given, and fall into sin, and by the grace of God we may arise again, and amend our lives.
Catholic
Mortal sin is a radical possibility of human freedom, as is love itself. It results in the loss of charity and the privation of sanctifying grace, that is, of the state of grace.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1861
Our article: Protestant vs Catholic: How Their Beliefs and Worship Differ
God's choosing
Anglican and Episcopal
Predestination to Life is the everlasting purpose of God, whereby (before the foundations of the world were laid) he hath constantly decreed by his counsel secret to us, to deliver from curse and damnation those whom he hath chosen in Christ out of mankind, and to bring them by Christ to everlasting salvation, as vessels made to honour.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XVII
Our article: Anglican vs. Presbyterian Beliefs
Catholic
To God, all moments of time are present in their immediacy. When therefore he establishes his eternal plan of "predestination", he includes in it each person's free response to his grace
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 600
Our article: Do Catholics Believe in Predestination? What Each Church Teaches
Who is saved
Anglican and Episcopal
They also are to be had accursed that presume to say, That every man shall be saved by the Law or Sect which he professeth, so that he be diligent to frame his life according to that Law, and the light of Nature. For holy Scripture doth set out unto us only the Name of Jesus Christ, whereby men must be saved.
From Thirty-nine Articles, Article XVIII (Church of England)
Catholic
Those who, through no fault of their own, do not know the Gospel of Christ or his Church, but who nevertheless seek God with a sincere heart, and, moved by grace, try in their actions to do his will as they know it through the dictates of their conscience – those too may achieve eternal salvation.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 847
Our article: Iglesia ni Cristo vs Catholic: The Key Differences, Starting With Who Jesus Is
Original sin
Anglican and Episcopal
Original Sin standeth not in the following of Adam, (as the Pelagians do vainly talk;) but it is the fault and corruption of the Nature of every man, that naturally is ingendered of the offspring of Adam; whereby man is very far gone from original righteousness, and is of his own nature inclined to evil, so that the flesh lusteth always contrary to the spirit; and therefore in every person born into this world, it deserveth God's wrath and damnation.
From Thirty-nine Articles, Article IX (Church of England)
Our article: Original Sin: What Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants Each Teach
Catholic
The account of the fall in Genesis 3 uses figurative language, but affirms a primeval event, a deed that took place at the beginning of the history of man. Revelation gives us the certainty of faith that the whole of human history is marked by the original fault freely committed by our first parents.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 390
Our article: Do Catholics Believe in Evolution? The Church Allows It, With Two Limits
Human nature
Anglican and Episcopal
The condition of Man after the fall of Adam is such, that he cannot turn and prepare himself, by his own natural strength and good works, to faith, and calling upon God: Wherefore we have no power to do good works pleasant and acceptable to God, without the grace of God by Christ preventing us, that we may have a good will, and working with us, when we have that good will.
From Thirty-nine Articles, Article X (Church of England)
Our article: Original Sin: What Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants Each Teach
Catholic
The Church teaches that every spiritual soul is created immediately by God – it is not "produced" by the parents – and also that it is immortal: it does not perish when it separates from the body at death, and it will be reunited with the body at the final Resurrection.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 366
Our article: Do Catholics Believe in Evolution? The Church Allows It, With Two Limits
Holiness in this life
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
The Holy Spirit is revealed as the Lord who leads us into all truth and enables us to grow in the likeness of Christ.
From Book of Common Prayer 1979 (Episcopal Church), Catechism: The Holy Spirit
Our article: Anglican vs. Methodist Beliefs
Catholic
The way of perfection passes by way of the Cross. There is no holiness without renunciation and spiritual battle.
Old Testament law
Anglican and Episcopal
Although the Law given from God by Moses, as touching Ceremonies and Rites, do not bind Christian men, nor the Civil precepts thereof ought of necessity to be received in any commonwealth; yet notwithstanding, no Christian man whatsoever is free from the obedience of the Commandments which are called Moral.
Catholic
Since they express man's fundamental duties towards God and towards his neighbor, the Ten Commandments reveal, in their primordial content, grave obligations. They are fundamentally immutable, and they oblige always and everywhere.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2072
Our article: Examination of Conscience: A Catholic Guide by the Ten Commandments
Baptism and Communion
Baptism
Anglican and Episcopal
The Baptism of young Children is in any wise to be retained in the Church, as most agreeable with the institution of Christ.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XXVII
Our article: Episcopalian: What It Means, and Is the Episcopal Church Protestant? Yes, by Its Own Account
Catholic
Baptism is necessary for salvation for those to whom the Gospel has been proclaimed and who have had the possibility of asking for this sacrament.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1257
Our article: Seventh-day Adventist vs Catholic: Sabbath, Death and Authority
How baptism is done
Anglican and Episcopal
Each candidate is presented by name to the Celebrant, or to an assisting priest or deacon, who then immerses, or pours water upon, the candidate, saying N. , I baptize you in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
From Book of Common Prayer 1979 (Episcopal Church), Holy Baptism: The Baptism
Our article: Episcopalian: What It Means, and Is the Episcopal Church Protestant? Yes, by Its Own Account
Catholic
Baptism is performed in the most expressive way by triple immersion in the baptismal water. However, from ancient times it has also been able to be conferred by pouring the water three times over the candidate's head.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1239
Our article: Baptist vs Catholic Beliefs: Baptism, Communion, the Pope and Salvation
Receiving the Spirit
Anglican and Episcopal
The inward and spiritual grace in Baptism is union with Christ in his death and resurrection, birth into God’s family the Church, forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (Holy Baptism)
Catholic
Confirmation perfects Baptismal grace; it is the sacrament which gives the Holy Spirit in order to root us more deeply in the divine filiation, incorporate us more firmly into Christ, strengthen our bond with the Church, associate us more closely with her mission, and help us bear witness to the Christian faith in words accompanied by deeds.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1316
Our article: Pentecostal vs Catholic: Authority, Sacraments and Tongues
Baptism for the dead
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
It is required that we renounce Satan, repent of our sins, and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (Holy Baptism)
Catholic
Catholic has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
As regards children who have died without Baptism, the Church can only entrust them to the mercy of God, as she does in her funeral rites for them.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1261
Our article: Baptism for the Dead: 1 Corinthians 15:29 and Who Practices It
Communion
Anglican and Episcopal
The Supper of the Lord is not only a sign of the love that Christians ought to have among themselves one to another; but rather is a Sacrament of our Redemption by Christ's death: insomuch that to such as rightly, worthily, and with faith, receive the same, the Bread which we break is a partaking of the Body of Christ; and likewise the Cup of Blessing is a partaking of the Blood of Christ.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XXVIII
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
In the most blessed sacrament of the Eucharist "the body and blood, together with the soul and divinity, of our Lord Jesus Christ and, therefore, the whole Christ is truly, really, and substantially contained."
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1374
Our article: Protestant vs Catholic: How Their Beliefs and Worship Differ
Who takes Communion
Anglican and Episcopal
baptized persons who are communicant members of other Churches which subscribe to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, and who are in good standing in their own Church;
From Canons of the Church of England, B 15A (Of the admission to Holy Communion)
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
Because Catholics believe that the celebration of the Eucharist is a sign of the reality of the oneness of faith, life, and worship, members of those churches with whom we are not yet fully united are ordinarily not admitted to Holy Communion.
From US Conference of Catholic Bishops, Guidelines for Receiving Communion
Our article: Methodist vs Catholic: How John Wesley’s Heirs Differ From the Catholic Church
Communion bread and wine
Anglican and Episcopal
The bread, whether leavened or unleavened, shall be of the best and purest wheat flour that conveniently may be gotten, and the wine the fermented juice of the grape, good and wholesome.
Catholic
According to the ancient tradition of the Latin Church, the priest is to use unleavened bread in the eucharistic celebration whenever he offers it.
From Code of Canon Law, canon 926
Our article: Byzantine Catholic vs Roman Catholic: One Church, Two Ways of Worship
Sacraments
Anglican and Episcopal
There are two Sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord in the Gospel, that is to say, Baptism, and the Supper of the Lord.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XXV
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
Christ instituted the sacraments of the new law. There are seven: Baptism, Confirmation (or Chrismation), the Eucharist, Penance, the Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders and Matrimony.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1210
Our article: Protestant vs Catholic: How Their Beliefs and Worship Differ
Church and worship
Leadership
Anglican and Episcopal
Each province is autonomous, with its own system of governance. The most senior of the bishops or archbishops in each province are known as "Primates".
From Church of England, The Anglican Communion (churchofengland.org)
Our article: Anglican vs Protestant: Is the Anglican Church Protestant? Yes, by History and Law
Catholic
The Pope, Bishop of Rome and Peter's successor, "is the perpetual and visible source and foundation of the unity both of the bishops and of the whole company of the faithful."
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 882
Our article: Jehovah’s Witnesses vs Catholics: How the Two Faiths Differ
Who may be ordained
Anglican and Episcopal
Bishops , Priests, and Deacons, are not commanded by God's Law, either to vow the estate of single life, or to abstain from marriage: therefore it is lawful for them, as for all other Christian men, to marry at their own discretion, as they shall judge the same to serve better to godliness.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XXXII
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
"Only a baptized man (vir) validly receives sacred ordination." The Lord Jesus chose men (viri) to form the college of the twelve apostles, and the apostles did the same when they chose collaborators to succeed them in their ministry.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1577
Our article: Methodist vs Catholic: How John Wesley’s Heirs Differ From the Catholic Church
Women ministers
Anglican and Episcopal
The General Synod of the Church of England has today given its final approval for women to become bishops in the Church of England.
From Church of England press release, 14 July 2014: Church of England to have women bishops
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
Wherefore, in order that all doubt may be removed regarding a matter of great importance, a matter which pertains to the Church's divine constitution itself, in virtue of my ministry of confirming the brethren (cf. Lk 22:32) I declare that the Church has no authority whatsoever to confer priestly ordination on women and that this judgment is to be definitively held by all the Church's faithful.
From Pope John Paul II, Ordinatio Sacerdotalis (1994), 4
Our article: Can Women Become Catholic Priests?
Confession
Anglican and Episcopal
The Reconciliation of a Penitent is available for all who desire it. It is not restricted to times of sickness. Confessions may be heard anytime and anywhere.
From Book of Common Prayer 1979 (Episcopal Church), Reconciliation of a Penitent: Concerning the Rite
Our article: Episcopal vs Catholic: The Real Differences, Compared
Catholic
According to the Church's command, "after having attained the age of discretion, each of the faithful is bound by an obligation faithfully to confess serious sins at least once a year."
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1457
Our article: Baptist vs Catholic Beliefs: Baptism, Communion, the Pope and Salvation
Day of worship
Anglican and Episcopal
The Lord's Day, commonly called Sunday, is ever to be celebrated as a weekly memorial of our Lord's Resurrection and kept according to God's holy will and pleasure, particularly by attendance at divine service, by deeds of charity, and by abstention from all unnecessary labour and business.
From Canons of the Church of England, Canon B 6
Our article: Which Christians Keep the Sabbath on Saturday?
Catholic
Sunday is expressly distinguished from the sabbath which it follows chronologically every week; for Christians its ceremonial observance replaces that of the sabbath.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2175
Our article: Seventh-day Adventist vs Catholic: Sabbath, Death and Authority
Worship music
Anglican and Episcopal
It is the duty of the minister to ensure that only such chants, hymns, anthems, and other settings are chosen as are appropriate, both the words and the music, to the solemn act of worship and prayer in the House of God as well as to the congregation assembled for that purpose; and to banish all irreverence in the practice and in the performance of the same.
Catholic
The Church acknowledges Gregorian chant as specially suited to the Roman liturgy: therefore, other things being equal, it should be given pride of place in liturgical services. But other kinds of sacred music, especially polyphony, are by no means excluded from liturgical celebrations, so long as they accord with the spirit of the liturgical action, as laid down in Art. 30.
Icons and images
Anglican and Episcopal
The Romish Doctrine concerning Purgatory, Pardons, Worshipping, and Adoration, as well of Images as of Reliques, and also invocation of Saints, is a fond thing vainly invented, and grounded upon no warranty of Scripture, but rather repugnant to the Word of God.
Catholic
The Christian veneration of images is not contrary to the first commandment which proscribes idols. Indeed, "the honor rendered to an image passes to its prototype," and "whoever venerates an image venerates the person portrayed in it."
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2132
Our article: Jehovah’s Witnesses vs Catholics: How the Two Faiths Differ
Speaking in tongues
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
We recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit when we confess Jesus Christ as Lord and are brought into love and harmony with God, with ourselves, with our neighbors, and with all creation.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (The Holy Spirit)
Catholic
There are furthermore special graces, also called charisms after the Greek term used by St. Paul and meaning "favor," "gratuitous gift," "benefit." Whatever their character – sometimes it is extraordinary, such as the gift of miracles or of tongues – charisms are oriented toward sanctifying grace and are intended for the common good of the Church.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2003
Our article: Pentecostal vs Catholic: Authority, Sacraments and Tongues
Spiritual gifts today
Anglican and Episcopal
The healing ministry is Jesus’ ministry entrusted to us, always to be exercised with reverence, love and compassion. The guiding principle is to recognize the presence of God in those receiving this ministry and honor his presence in them.
Our article: Cessationism: Did the Spiritual Gifts End? What Churches Teach
Catholic
Charisms are to be accepted with gratitude by the person who receives them and by all members of the Church as well. They are a wonderfully rich grace for the apostolic vitality and for the holiness of the entire Body of Christ, provided they really are genuine gifts of the Holy Spirit and are used in full conformity with authentic promptings of this same Spirit, that is, in keeping with charity, the true measure of all charisms.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 800
Our article: Pentecostal vs Catholic: Authority, Sacraments and Tongues
Demons and exorcism
Anglican and Episcopal
Some people, however, seek specific help when going through times of suffering and anxiety, or when distressed by what seem to be continuing experiences of evil within them or around them. For these people, it may be right to ask for God’s saving help through the Church’s deliverance ministry.
Our article: Demons and Exorcism: What Each Church Teaches
Catholic
Exorcism is directed at the expulsion of demons or to the liberation from demonic possession through the spiritual authority which Jesus entrusted to his Church. Illness, especially psychological illness, is a very different matter; treating this is the concern of medical science.
Head coverings
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
It is not necessary that Traditions and Ceremonies be in all places one, and utterly like; for at all times they have been divers, and may be changed according to the diversities of countries, times, and men's manners, so that nothing be ordained against God's Word.
From Thirty-nine Articles, Article XXXIV (Church of England)
Catholic
We found no official statement from Catholic on head coverings.
Our article: What to Wear to a Catholic Wake or Funeral
Mary and the saints
Mary
Anglican and Episcopal
Almighty God, who looked upon the lowliness of the Blessed Virgin Mary and chose her to be the mother of your only Son: grant that we who are redeemed by his blood may share with her in the glory of your eternal kingdom;
From Common Worship (Church of England), Festivals: collect for The Blessed Virgin Mary, 15 August
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
In fact, the One whom she conceived as man by the Holy Spirit, who truly became her Son according to the flesh, was none other than the Father's eternal Son, the second person of the Holy Trinity. Hence the Church confesses that Mary is truly "Mother of God" (Theotokos).
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 495
Our article: Protestant vs Catholic: How Their Beliefs and Worship Differ
Was Mary sinless
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
He came to be the Lamb without spot, who, by sacrifice of himself once made, should take away the sins of the world, and sin, as Saint John saith, was not in him. But all we the rest, although baptized, and born again in Christ, yet offend in many things; and if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XV (Of Christ alone without Sin)
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
The most Blessed Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God and by virtue of the merits of Jesus Christ, Saviour of the human race, preserved immune from all stain of original sin.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 491
Our article: Protestant vs Catholic: How Their Beliefs and Worship Differ
Praying to saints
Anglican and Episcopal
The Romish Doctrine concerning Purgatory, Pardons, Worshipping, and Adoration, as well of Images as of Reliques, and also invocation of Saints, is a fond thing vainly invented, and grounded upon no warranty of Scripture, but rather repugnant to the Word of God.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XXII
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
In prayer, the pilgrim Church is associated with that of the saints, whose intercession she asks.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2692
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Death and the end
After death
Anglican and Episcopal
We pray for them, because we still hold them in our love, and because we trust that in God’s presence those who have chosen to serve him will grow in his love, until they see him as he is.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (The Christian Hope)
Catholic
The New Testament speaks of judgment primarily in its aspect of the final encounter with Christ in his second coming, but also repeatedly affirms that each will be rewarded immediately after death in accordance with his works and faith.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1021
Our article: Seventh-day Adventist vs Catholic: Sabbath, Death and Authority
Purgatory
Anglican and Episcopal
The Romish Doctrine concerning Purgatory, Pardons, Worshipping, and Adoration, as well of Images as of Reliques, and also invocation of Saints, is a fond thing vainly invented, and grounded upon no warranty of Scripture, but rather repugnant to the Word of God.
From Thirty-nine Articles of Religion (Church of England), Article XXII (Of Purgatory)
Our article: Anglican vs Protestant: Is the Anglican Church Protestant? Yes, by History and Law
Catholic
All who die in God's grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1030
Our article: Protestant vs Catholic: How Their Beliefs and Worship Differ
Hell
Anglican and Episcopal
By heaven, we mean eternal life in our enjoyment of God; by hell, we mean eternal death in our rejection of God.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (The Christian Hope)
Catholic
The teaching of the Church affirms the existence of hell and its eternity. Immediately after death the souls of those who die in a state of mortal sin descend into hell, where they suffer the punishments of hell, "eternal fire." The chief punishment of hell is eternal separation from God, in whom alone man can possess the life and happiness for which he was created and for which he longs.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1035
Our article: Seventh-day Adventist vs Catholic: Sabbath, Death and Authority
The rapture
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
By the coming of Christ in glory, we mean that Christ will come, not in weakness but in power, and will make all things new.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (The Christian Hope)
Catholic
Catholic has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
Since the Ascension Christ's coming in glory has been imminent, even though "it is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has fixed by his own authority.". This eschatological coming could be accomplished at any moment, even if both it and the final trial that will precede it are "delayed".
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 673
Our article: Do Catholics Believe In The Rapture?
The Tribulation
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
The Christian hope is to live with confidence in newness and fullness of life, and to await the coming of Christ in glory, and the completion of God’s purpose for the world.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (The Christian Hope)
Catholic
Catholic has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
Before Christ's second coming the Church must pass through a final trial that will shake the faith of many believers. The persecution that accompanies her pilgrimage on earth will unveil the "mystery of iniquity" in the form of a religious deception offering men an apparent solution to their problems at the price of apostasy from the truth.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 675
Our article: Do Catholics Believe In The Rapture?
The thousand years
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
We believe that Christ will come in glory and judge the living and the dead.
From Episcopal Church, Book of Common Prayer 1979, Catechism (The Christian Hope)
Catholic
The Antichrist's deception already begins to take shape in the world every time the claim is made to realize within history that messianic hope which can only be realized beyond history through the eschatological judgement. the Church has rejected even modified forms of this falsification of the kingdom to come under the name of millenarianism, especially the "intrinsically perverse" political form of a secular messianism.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 676
Our article: Do Catholics Believe In The Rapture?
Dispensations
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
The Old Testament is not contrary to the New: for both in the Old and New Testament everlasting life is offered to Mankind by Christ, who is the only Mediator between God and Man, being both God and Man.
Catholic
Catholic has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
One enters into the People of God by faith and Baptism. "All men are called to belong to the new People of God" (LG 13), so that, in Christ, "men may form one family and one People of God" (AG 1).
Marriage and family
Marriage
Anglican and Episcopal
The Church of England affirms, according to our Lord's teaching, that marriage is in its nature a union permanent and lifelong, for better for worse, till death them do part, of one man with one woman, to the exclusion of all others on either side
From Church of England, Canon B 30 (the Episcopal Church approved same-sex marriage rites in 2015)
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
A marriage that is ratum et consummatum can be dissolved by no human power and by no cause, except death.
From Code of Canon Law, canon 1141
Our article: Mormon vs Catholic Beliefs: How the Two Churches Differ on God
Sex outside marriage
Anglican and Episcopal
For Christians, marriage – that is the lifelong union between a man and a woman, contracted with the making of vows – remains the proper context for sexual activity.
Catholic
Fornication is carnal union between an unmarried man and an unmarried woman. It is gravely contrary to the dignity of persons and of human sexuality which is naturally ordered to the good of spouses and the generation and education of children.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2353
Our article: What Does the Catholic Church Teach About Sex? Marriage, Contraception and Chastity
Divorce
Anglican and Episcopal
The Church of England teaches that marriage is for life. It also recognizes that some marriages sadly do fail and, if this should happen, it seeks to be available for all involved. The Church accepts that, in exceptional circumstances, a divorced person may marry again in church during the lifetime of a former spouse.
From Church of England, Marriage in church after divorce (leaflet)
Our article: Divorce and Remarriage: What Each Church Allows
Catholic
Divorce is a grave offense against the natural law. It claims to break the contract, to which the spouses freely consented, to live with each other till death. Divorce does injury to the covenant of salvation, of which sacramental marriage is the sign.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2384
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Remarriage
Anglican and Episcopal
Your church wishes you a lifetime of love that grows within God’s protection. But we recognise that some marriages do fail for all sorts of sad and painful reasons. So in certain circumstances the Church of England accepts that a divorced person may marry again in church and this has been the case since 2002.
From Church of England, Marriage after divorce
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
The Church maintains that a new union cannot be recognized as valid, if the first marriage was. If the divorced are remarried civilly, they find themselves in a situation that objectively contravenes God's law.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1650
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Contraception
Anglican and Episcopal
Nevertheless in those cases where there is such a clearly felt moral obligation to limit or avoid parenthood, and where there is a morally sound reason for avoiding complete abstinence, the Conference agrees that other methods may be used, provided that this is done in the light of the same Christian principles.
From Lambeth Conference 1930, Resolution 15 (Marriage and Sex)
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Catholic
The regulation of births represents one of the aspects of responsible fatherhood and motherhood. Legitimate intentions on the part of the spouses do not justify recourse to morally unacceptable means (for example, direct sterilization or contraception).
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2399
Our article: Anglican vs Catholic: Why the Church of England Is Not Roman Catholic
Abortion
Anglican and Episcopal
While we acknowledge that in this country it is the legal right of every woman to have a medically safe abortion, as Christians we believe strongly that if this right is exercised, it should be used only in extreme situations. We emphatically oppose abortion as a means of birth control, family planning, sex selection, or any reason of mere convenience.
From Episcopal Church, General Convention 1994, Resolution A054
Catholic
Since the first century the Church has affirmed the moral evil of every procured abortion. This teaching has not changed and remains unchangeable.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2271
Our article: The Salvation Army vs. Catholic Beliefs
Life and conscience
Blood transfusions
Anglican and Episcopal
Anglican and Episcopal has no teaching on this exact question. The closest is:
That this Synod call on all Church of England parishes to encourage their members to consider, as part of their Christian giving: (a) becoming blood donors; and (b) registering as organ donors and making their wishes known to their families.
From Church of England, General Synod motion on blood and organ donation (2016)
Catholic
After the apostolic era the Church did not feel obliged to make this a basis for formulating precise rules for the butcher and the kitchen, and still less in our own times to prohibit blood transfusion.
From Pontifical Biblical Commission, The Bible and Morality: Biblical Roots of Christian Conduct (2008)
Our article: Jehovah’s Witnesses vs Catholics: How the Two Faiths Differ
Alcohol
Anglican and Episcopal
The Episcopal Church has never endorsed prohibiting the use of beverages containing alcohol among adult members. Scripture offers Jesus' example of the use and serving of wine in his first miracle at Cana and in the institution of the Holy Eucharist. If an adult member elects to use alcohol, however, moderate usage is expected.
From Episcopal Church, General Convention 1985, Resolution A083 (policy on alcohol)
Our article: Can Christians Drink Alcohol? What the Churches Teach
Catholic
The virtue of temperance disposes us to avoid every kind of excess: the abuse of food, alcohol, tobacco, or medicine. Those incur grave guilt who, by drunkenness or a love of speed, endanger their own and others' safety on the road, at sea, or in the air.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2290
Our article: Can Christians Drink Alcohol? What the Churches Teach
War and military service
Anglican and Episcopal
It is lawful for Christian men, at the commandment of the Magistrate, to wear weapons, and serve in the wars.
From Thirty-nine Articles, Article XXXVII (Church of England)
Catholic
Those who are sworn to serve their country in the armed forces are servants of the security and freedom of nations. If they carry out their duty honorably, they truly contribute to the common good of the nation and the maintenance of peace.
From Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2310
Our article: Jehovah’s Witnesses vs Catholics: How the Two Faiths Differ
Read the full comparison Episcopal vs Catholic: The Real Differences, Compared
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Each answer is quoted word for word from the church’s own documents, with a link to the page it came from. Where we found no official statement, the cell says so.
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23 Christian churches and traditions set side by side on 55 questions, each answer quoted from the church’s own statement of what it teaches, with a link to the page it came from.
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Christian Pure. "Compare Christian Denominations." Updated November 9, 2026. https://christianpure.com/compare-denominations/.
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