High Church

Definition

High Church refers to a tradition within Anglicanism characterized by a strong emphasis on the liturgical and sacramental aspects of worship, as well as a belief in the apostolic succession of bishops. This tradition values the use of formal rituals, vestments, and ceremonial practices during worship, reflecting a close connection to the historical practices of the Catholic Church. High Church adherents often advocate for a more hierarchical structure within the church, which distinguishes them from Low Church traditions that prioritize scripture and preaching over formal liturgy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. High Church worship typically includes elaborate ceremonies, such as the use of incense, processions, and the celebration of the Eucharist as a central element.
2. The theology behind High Church practices often emphasizes the importance of tradition and the historical continuity of the church from the time of the apostles.
3. High Church Anglicanism tends to view bishops as essential to the church's governance and sacramental life, asserting that they play a key role in preserving apostolic succession.
4. In contrast to Low Church traditions, which focus more on preaching and personal faith, High Church adherents may place less emphasis on individual interpretation of scripture.
5. The High Church movement gained prominence during the Oxford Movement in the 19th century, which sought to revive traditional practices within Anglicanism and strengthen its connection to Catholic heritage.

Review Questions

• How does High Church worship distinguish itself from Low Church traditions within Anglicanism?
  • High Church worship is distinguished from Low Church traditions primarily through its emphasis on formal liturgy, sacramental practices, and elaborate ceremonies. While Low Church adherents focus on scripture and preaching as central elements of worship, High Church practices prioritize the rituals and traditions that reflect a historical continuity with the Catholic Church. This distinction highlights differing theological perspectives within Anglicanism regarding the role of tradition versus personal faith.
• Discuss the impact of the Oxford Movement on High Church Anglicanism and its broader implications for Anglican identity.
  • The Oxford Movement had a significant impact on High Church Anglicanism by advocating for a return to traditional practices and emphasizing the importance of apostolic succession and the sacraments. This movement sought to align Anglican beliefs more closely with those of Roman Catholicism, thereby reshaping perceptions of Anglican identity. The renewed focus on liturgy and tradition not only influenced worship practices but also sparked debates about authority and interpretation within the broader Anglican community.
• Evaluate the significance of apostolic succession in High Church theology and how it shapes their understanding of church authority.
  • Apostolic succession is a cornerstone of High Church theology, as it asserts that bishops are directly linked to the apostles through an unbroken line of ordination. This belief shapes their understanding of church authority by positioning bishops as essential leaders who maintain doctrinal integrity and administer sacraments. The emphasis on apostolic succession reinforces the idea that authority within the church is derived from Christ through his apostles, contributing to a hierarchical structure that values tradition and continuity over individual interpretation.

Related terms

Anglicanism: A branch of Christianity that originated in England, combining elements of Protestantism and Roman Catholicism, known for its diverse theological perspectives.

Episcopalianism: The American branch of Anglicanism, which shares similar beliefs and practices, including the governance by bishops and the importance of sacraments.

Liturgical Worship: A form of worship that follows a specific set order or structure, often involving prayers, readings, and rituals that reflect the theological beliefs of a particular tradition.