Loading...Unit 3 of the Christian Education series on Religious Identity and Anglicanism, originating from Grace Episcopal Church (Sheboygan, WI) and utilized in sunday-morning-formation at incarnation-west-point.
Sacramental Theology
- Sacrament: Defined as "an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace, given by Christ..." (BCP 857). They are vehicles of grace, accomplishing God's purpose by means external to the believer.
- Ontological Change: Anglicanism holds that sacraments involve a change in being (ontology), rather than being merely functional or symbolic. For example, Holy Orders conform the ordinand to God's purpose, and the Holy Eucharist involves the real presence of Christ.
- Sacraments vs. Rites: Anglicanism distinguishes two "Dominical" sacraments instituted by Christ (Baptism and Holy Eucharist) from five sacramental rites (confirmation, ordination, holy matrimony, reconciliation, and unction) evolved under the Holy Spirit.
- Grace: God's unearned favor, which forgives sins, enlightens minds, and strengthens wills (BCP 858).
