Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be "Anglican"?
The Anglican faith grew out of the Protestant Reformation in Europe in the 16th century. While Anglicans recognized the need for reform, the preservation of liturgical practices that were deeply rooted in the Christian Church from its inception was considered vital. Anglicans believe in the apostolic succession of the episcopate as both the legitimate connection to the early church and a means of structuring authority in the church today.
Why is a new Anglican presence needed in Central Virginia?
Since the inception of this country the Anglican expression of the Christian faith has been represented by the Episcopal Church. In recent years that body has taken theological positions that many find inconsistent with their understanding of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and with the historical faith. St. Barnabas is attempting to embrace a more traditional perspective than the one currently espoused by The Episcopal Church.
What are the three streams?
Most churches emphasize a sacramental, evangelical, or charismatic focus in defining their system of beliefs. St. Barnabas integrates all three perspectives into a convergence of all three streams. We are sacramental in that we affirm the tenets of the 1888 Lambeth Quadrilateral: a belief in the episcopate, the creeds, seven sacraments with emphases on baptism and the eucharist, and the centrality of Holy Scripture. We are evangelical in that we believe in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and in the authority of Scripture as a rule of faith and practice. We are charismatic in that we believe in God's continued spiritual presence in the person of the Holy Spirit, and that spiritual gifts are given to all as a means of building up the body of Christ. We embrace a healing ministry anchored in the sacrament of unction (anointing). We practice our faith in the context of Christian community, reaching out into the world from the safe haven and secure base of the faith we share together in Jesus Christ.