Introduction
Anglican and Catholic both adhere to the Church’s Creeds, which are statements of faith established by the early church. They both believe in God as the creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus as the Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Anglican
Anglican refers to individuals and churches that follow the religious practices of the Church of England. The history of Anglicanism dates back to the early followers of Jesus, and recognizes the divisions with the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches. Anglicans maintain their authority through apostolic succession, while still advocating for the Catholic faith.
Catholic
Catholic means whole or universal, and early Christians used this term to refer to the entire Church. In non-ecclesiastical usage, it also signifies having wide sympathies and broad interests, as well as being inclusive and evangelistic. The term is incorporated into the name of the largest Christian communion, the Catholic Church.
Difference Between Anglican and Catholic
Anglican is a specific branch of Christianity, while catholic is a general term. Anglican priests are allowed to marry and view communion as a significant act. On the other hand, Catholic priests, nuns, and monks are celibate. The Anglican Church avoids hierarchy, while the Catholic Church embraces it. Anglicans see bread and wine in communion as symbolic, whereas Catholics believe in the transubstantiation of the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ.
Regardless of their beliefs and practices, Anglican and Catholic have played distinct roles throughout history. The choice of what to believe and follow ultimately lies with the individuals.
Highlights
1. Anglican and Catholic both follow and adhere to the Church’s Creeds, which are statements of faith recognized by the early church to prevent heresies.
2. Anglican refers to individuals and churches following the religious customs of the Church of England, while Catholic is a term that means whole or universal.
3. There are differences between Anglican and Catholic, such as Anglican priests being allowed to marry and taking communion as a significant act, while Catholic priests are celibate and consider the bread and wine in communion to be the body and blood of Christ.
