Expert: The Ven. Dr. Brian A. Evans - 7/29/2001

Question
I am currently searching for my true religion and have a couple quetsions concerning this religion. I am presently catholic, but disagree with several of 'rules' my religion has. Would you be kind enough to give me a run down of ALL the "beliefs" and the so called" rules' of this relgion? If you could compare them, that would be great. my disagreements of my current religion involves homosexual,the act of making love and birth controls methods.  Thanks :0)

Answer
Dear Dawn,

It is virtually impossible to list all the beliefs and rules of the Anglican Church.  This has been the topic of numerous books written over the centuries of the Church.  In a nutshell, the Anglican Church is part of the 'One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church'.  One could say that the Anglican Church is close in beliefs to the Catholic Church, but without the very strict and narrow teachings.  For example, we don't believe in the infallibility of the pope, priests are celebate only by choice (the vast majority of priests are married), ordinatio n of women (Anglicans even have female bishops), and the doctrine of real presence in Eucharist.  As far as homosexuality is concerned, our thinking is evolving - gays are accepted, but there are certain provisos.  As far as making love is concerned, I'm not sure what you are asking - making love is a private act between 2 people and it is up to them to decide what and how to do it, as long as both parties are in agreement as to what is happening.  Birth control is not only permitted (any form) but is also encouraged at times (families too large for the couples resources, newlyweds, etc.).

I'm not sure if this answers your questions or not.  If not, don't hesitate to send a follow-up question.  BTW, I will be on vacation from Aug. 3-17, so if you follow up during that time, I will answer on my return.

Blessings

Brian+