The Episcopal Church is the American branch of the Anglican Communion. The Anglican Communion is made up of various national churches that are rooted in the Church of England. These churches are the result of the missionary zeal of the English Church during the colonial era.

The Anglican Communion (including the Episcopal Church) is the third largest group of Christians in the world. Anglicans share much of the liturgical and historical emphasis one might find in the Greek and Roman Catholic faiths as well as much of the Protestant theology one might find in the churches of the Reformation. It is distinctive in this regard.

Anglicans tend to work out their theology through a triad of Scripture, Tradition and Reason. That is, the Bible is seen as primary for us and is our overarching authority. We understand that the thinking of the Church through the ages has likewise brought about a rich and reliable Tradition that should always be considered. Finally, because God created us as rational beings, our theology should stand the test of Reason. Because different Anglicans put different weight on these three aspects, we often have a diversity of thought and opinions within Anglicanism. That along with our international flavor and a valuing of local cultures make s for what we call a "large tent" under which believers may assemble.

We tend to be people of two books, the Bible and the Book of Common Prayer. The Bible is primary for us and we believe it contains all things necessary to salvation. Further, we believe we cannot make any faith demands on an individual if they are not based in Scripture. The Book of Common Prayer contains the worship services of the church as well as documents that teach the faith of the Episcopal Church. Thus our worship is an outward expression of our theology as well.

Our worship tends to be both Word (Bible) and Sacrament (Holy Communion) centered. We value each as important for the preparation of the People of God to find and carry out their mission and ministry in the world. The hearing of Scripture and the preaching of the Word are valued in or worship, as is the reception of the Holy Communion at the Lord's Table.