Anglicanism in European Perspective

The Anglican Communion is the third-largest global communion in the Christian tradition, after the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. Yet despite their centuries-long presence in Continental Europe, Anglican churches are relatively little known—and less understood—in Europe. As a tradition with its roots in the Reformation as it was experienced in the British Isles, and as a global church that spread alongside the British Empire, Anglicanism has historically been a migrant church in Europe—until recent years, largely the faith of American and British expatriate communities.

Continental Europe is a distinctive arena for the Anglican tradition. It is one of few places on earth where the churches of more than one province in communion with the See of Canterbury—the sine qua non of membership in the Anglican Communion—are present as neighbours. The four Anglican churches present in continental Europe—the Church of England, the Episcopal Church, the Spanish Reformed Episcopal Church, and the Lusitanian Catholic Apostolic Evangelical Church—each exist for unique reasons, and have distinct histories here. And increasingly, Anglican faith communities draw worshippers from the European contexts and cultures within which they are present—offering worship services in local languages.

Serving clergy, those interested in ordination, and lay leaders of Anglican congregations in Europe are especially welcome to apply. 

More information about the programme and lecturers can be found in the day-to-day programme that will be uploaded as soon as possible.

This course can be combined with two additional courses offered by the Old Catholic Summer School, including a basic course: Old Catholic Theology in its Ecumenical Context and a second week of advanced studies: Old Catholic Theology beyond the Basics: In search of being Church in Communion. That course is offered in immediate connection with the introductory course. Combining both courses leads to a reduction of the total course fee. You can apply for the combination track here Old Catholic Theology: Communion as Calling and Challenge.