The Episcopalian and Catholic churches are two of the most important and influential churches in the world. Both of these churches have their own history and doctrines, and there are some similarities between the two churches. For example, both of these churches are monotheistic. They believe in one God. Both of these churches believe in the same Bible. They also believe in the same sacraments.
However, aside from these similarities, there are also some differences between the two churches. In this article, we will discuss the differences between the Episcopalian and Catholic churches, the origins of the two churches, the history of the two churches, and how the two churches view each other. So, let’s begin.
Summary Table:
| Episcopalian | Catholic |
|
Used in reference to Scottish Protestant yet Catholic Church |
Used in reference to the Roman Catholic Church |
| Has a very strict set of rules approved by the General Assembly |
Less strict, approved by the Pope |
| Was founded in the 16th century by John Calvin | Was founded in the year 2 BC, which is before the time of Christ |
Definitions:
Before we talk about the differences between the Episcopalian and Catholic churches, let’s first define what we mean by “Episcopalian Church” and “Catholic Church.” To do this, we need to take a look back at the definitions and history of the two churches.
What is the Episcopalian Church?
The word “Episcopalian” comes from the Greek word episkope, which means “overseer.” The term was first used in reference to the bishops of Rome during the fourth century A.D., and it has been used ever since.
The Episcopalian Church is a Protestant-Catholic Christian church that traces its roots back to the early days of Christianity, when the Roman Catholic Church was still in its infancy. The Episcopalian Church is also known as the Episcopal Church, and it is one of the oldest Christian churches in America. The first official meeting of this church was held on June 1, 1607 at St. Paul’s Chapel in New York City. The first bishop of the Episcopal Church was William White, who was also the first Anglican bishop in America.
The Episcopalian Church was founded in 1607 by English and Scottish Protestants who were unhappy with the policies of King James I, who had recently ascended to the throne. The Episcopalian Church was originally called the “Church of England,” but it changed its name to the Episcopal Church in 1789.
The Episcopalian Church defines itself as a Protestant Christian church, but also a ‘Catholic’ church. The Episcopalian Church believes that the Roman Catholic Church is not a true church, and it does not recognize its authority to perform sacraments or ordain priests.
The Episcopalian Church also believes in the Bible as the only source of Christian doctrine, and they do not believe in the authority of the Pope. The Episcopalian Church also believes that it is the only true church on earth, and they do not recognize any other Christian churches as being part of their fellowship.
What is the Catholic Church?
The word “Catholic” comes from the Greek word katholikos, which means “universal.” The term was also first used in reference to the Roman Catholic Church during the fourth century A.D., and it has been used ever since. However, the term “Catholic” is also used to refer to the Roman Catholic Church, as well as other churches that trace their roots back to the early days of Christianity.
Unlike the Episcopalian Church, the Catholic Church believes that Jesus Christ established only one true church on earth. This is the Roman Catholic Church, and it is this one true church that can be called “Catholic.”
The Roman Catholic Church was founded in the year 2 BC by Saint Peter, who was the first Bishop of Rome. The Roman Catholic Church believes that Jesus Christ established only one true church on earth, which he called “the Holy Catholic Church.” The Roman Catholic Church also believes that the Pope is the head of this church, and he has authority to perform sacraments and ordain priests.
Episcopalian Vs. Catholic Churches:
As you may know, there are several different denominations of Christianity, and we will focus on the two most prominent ones; the Episcopalian and Catholic churches. There are similarities between the two churches, but there are also many differences. Let’s take a look at the differences between the two churches.
1. The origin
The Episcopalian church was founded in the 16th century by John Calvin, a Protestant reformer. The Catholic church was founded in the year 2 BC, which is before the time of Christ. However, this does not mean that it has nothing to do with Christianity; in fact, there are many aspects of the Catholic church that are rooted in Christianity such as the Christian roots of the Trinity, belief in Jesus Christ as God’s son, and faith in the Bible.
2. The worship
The Episcopalian church has a very strict set of rules when it comes to worshiping God. They only allow music that has been approved by their central authority, the General Assembly.
In contrast, the Catholic church allows music to be played in its churches that has been approved by their central authority, the Pope.
3. The ritual and ceremony
The Episcopalian church requires a set of prayers that are said at every Mass; a practice that dates back to the 11th century. The Catholic church has no set of prayers that are said at every Mass; however, they do have a series of prayers that are used during a specific part of the Mass.
4. The beliefs
In terms of religious beliefs, the Episcopalian church is very strict about only allowing those who have been baptized in the church to be ordained as priests. The Catholic church does not make this restriction, but it does require that priests be celibate.
5. The dress code
In terms of dress code, the Episcopalian church requires that men wear a full-length robe with a long, black cape and hood. Women are required to wear the same robe as men.
In contrast, the Catholic church does not require that women wear a long, black cape and a hood. They are only required to wear something that covers their hair; it can be a hat, a scarf, or something else.
6. The Mass
The Episcopalian church holds its main service of worship on Sundays at 11am. In contrast, the Catholic church holds its main service of worship on Sundays at 2pm; however, there are also several different times throughout the week when the Catholic church holds its services of worship such as Friday at 7pm, Saturday at 11am, and Sunday at 6:30am.
