On the XXXIX Articles

Dear Brothers+

From the Lambeth Conference of 1930:

'We have declared that the Doctrine of the Anglican Church is authoritatively expressed in the Book of Common Prayer, and that the meaning of the XXXIX Articles must be interpreted in accordance with the Book ofCommon Prayer.'

Having said that, the Lambeth Conferences still affirm the theological and ecclesial necessity of the XXXIX Articles. All orthodox Anglicans believe that the Articles are an authoritative statement of doctrinal teaching and practice, and that includes genuine BCP Anglican Catholics. This Anglican, who espouses the fullness of the catholic tradition, unhesitatingly accepts the Articles and would subscribe to them if asked. In a speech given to the US Anglican Congress in January 2004, Bishop Ray Sutton once remarked, to paraphrase, that the Articles of Religion are a quintessential Anglican formulary, but they are a formulary open to interpretation by the Church. He cited Tract XC as a received interpretation of the XXXIX Articles, that is, one that is currently held by a significant number of Anglicans and has enjoyed an historical usage. He clearly implied that the Tract XC interpretation, like that of Griffith-Thomas or others, is legitimate for Anglicans. The fact is that we all have the Articles and we all profess them. From the sixteenth century forward, we always have and always will interpret the Articles in different ways, for such is the nature of a document of peace designed to hold together a comprehensive yet united Church. But the key to a truly authentic interpretation of the Articles is the same key for an authentic interpretation of the whole deposit of Faith, including Holy Scripture itself: Liturgy. The one canon, two testaments, three creeds, first four general councils, and the first five centuries are all enshrined and perpetuated in the Liturgy. Prayer Book Catholics and Prayer Book Evangelicals are united in one Church because of what they share, the Prayer Book. Our common affirmation of the BCP tradition as the keystone to doctrinal application would go a long way to quiet controversy and bring that unanimity of doctrine and practice we all so heartily desire. Just another, rather reiterated thought.