• Worship that brings you in, instead of putting you on the sidelines
• A theology that demands our intelligence, rather than ignoring it
• A willingness to not only tolerate, but also celebrate differences
• A heritage that takes the Bible very seriously, but is not bound by literalism
• A strong sense of community in which our consensus is in Christ, not a conformity of opinion
• A devotion to the biblical Sacraments instituted by Jesus which evoke awe and mystery instead of factual explanation
• A sense of ministry that is rightfully the obligation and privilege of every baptized person
• An insistence upon morality (what is good and loving) and an avoidance of moralism (salvation by code and not by Christ)
• The heritage of apostolic faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and in the apostolic order given to the Church by Him.

(The Rev. Canon James R. McLean, Canon Missioner, Diocese of Arkansas)

Liturgical Worship
Anglican worship is liturgical, meaning it has a prescribed form and uses set texts repeated week after week, though there is seasonal variation in themes, colours and special celebrations, and room for considerable variety in the Prayers of the People and the music.

Liturgical worship is scripturally based, with many of the liturgical texts taken directly from the Bible. In common with many other churches, Anglicans use a three-year cycle of readings [the lectionary] so we hear a lot of scripture read.

Anglicans value liturgical worship for many reasons. Liturgies are designed to be celebrated by the whole community of Christ. Worship is non-individualistic. The focus is on God and on the community in relation to God, so the words ‘we’ and ‘us’ are far more frequently heard than the words ‘I’ and ‘me.’

Having a liturgy also frees us from the personality, interests or skills of the minister or other worship leaders. Liturgical worship invites and expects the participation of everyone present. Everyone has a part to play. Worshippers do not simply watch and listen to others doing things.

Finally, for Anglicans, liturgy expresses the teachings of the church. Aside from the two historic creeds, there are no other formulations of the faith to which members are asked to subscribe. Our liturgy is not written in stone but continues to evolve, while recognizing that what we say and sing is what we believe.

What is a St. Thomas’ Anglican?
Please read through our website pages for an idea of who we are and what we do. And of course – come worship with us any time and see for yourself!