Worship

Worship is at the very heart of Anglicanism. Our styles of worship vary from the simple to the elaborate, from evangelical to Catholic, from charismatic to traditional, depending on the preferences of the individual congregation.

Since the 16th Century, Anglicans have worshipped using traditional rituals and prayers. Over the years we have created new forms of worship as language and ideas in our culture have changed. At present, Canadian Anglicans use two worship books – the Book of Common Prayer and the Book of Alternative Services. The Book of Common Prayer is based on traditional rites of the 16th Century and uses language of that century. The Book of Alternative Services, published in 1985, uses more contemporary and inclusive language and draws on a broader range of prayers and rites.

Anglican services include Bible readings, spoken and sung words of praise, preaching, prayers, and the singing of hymns and other music. The celebration of Holy Communion (also known as the Eucharist, the Lord’s Supper, or the Mass) is central to our worship. In the Eucharist we recall the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we share the bread and wine we remember the sacrifice offered to ensure our everlasting salvation. The act of Communion is a personal encounter with God, an act of praise and thanksgiving.