What is the Church of England? Understanding the Religious History and Origins of England's National Church

The formation of a nation is invariably linked to religion. Eastern countries predominantly follow Buddhism, Taoism, and folk beliefs, while Middle Eastern nations mainly adhere to Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism. Christianity, however, is the mainstream religion in Western countries. Yet, with its many denominations, most British students might not know what the national religion of England is. Let's delve into the religious history of England and the origins of its national religion, to deepen your understanding and experience of studying in the UK.

Woman Visiting Church for Religious Pilgrimage
Woman Visiting Church for Religious Pilgrimage

Source: Freepik

Christianity originated in the Palestinian region of Western Asia. Due to its common origins with Judaism, the two share many practices and ideologies. Over time and through historical events, Christianity has branched into various denominations, broadly categorized into Protestantism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Roman Catholicism.

The national religion of England is the Church of England, based on the Anglican Communion of Protestantism, also known as the Anglican Church or the Church of England. As of now, the Church of England has about 26 million followers. It covers the southern Canterbury province and the northern York province, comprising 42 dioceses, including renowned areas such as London, Oxford, and Cambridge.

However, the Church of England does not include areas like Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each having their local churches - the Scottish Episcopal Church, the Church in Wales, and the Church of Ireland, respectively. Tracing back to the religious history of England, Wales had been invaded by the Anglo-Saxons, leading most locals to flee to Wales and adopt the Church in Wales. However, after reconciliation with the Celtic dioceses and other English territories, the Welsh dioceses became part of the Canterbury province. Later, under Henry VIII's religious reforms, Wales also came under the jurisdiction of the Church of England.

The origin of the Church of England can be traced back to the 16th-century English King Henry VIII. According to British religious history, Henry VIII wished to divorce his first wife but was barred by Catholic doctrines. Therefore, he chose to renounce Catholicism and establish the Church of England as the national religion, becoming the core of English religion. This move led to a schism between the Church of England and the Catholic Church.

Groom Putting Ring on Bride's Finger in Wedding
Groom Putting Ring on Bride's Finger in Wedding

Source: Freepik

Due to the intertwined origins of the Church of England and Catholicism, both religions share similar doctrines and rituals. However, there are differences. For instance, the Church of England does not adhere to the Pope, denying the absolute status of the papacy and abolishing the collection of tithes and church properties from believers. Additionally, it revised some Catholic traditions, such as allowing priests to marry.

Notable Cathedrals of the Church of England

For those interested in the Church of England, these two cathedrals are worth visiting, each with its unique features.

Canterbury Cathedral

Located in the city center of Canterbury, Kent, Canterbury Cathedral was initially built in 597 AD and reconstructed from 1070 to 1077, boasting over 1400 years of history. It's one of Britain's most important cultural heritage sites and the highest-status church in the Church of England. The cathedral's Gothic architecture is majestic, with narrow semi-circular arches and symmetrical structures, presenting the solemnity and majesty of the Church of England.

Canterbury Cathedral one of the Oldest Church
Canterbury Cathedral one of the Oldest Church

Source: iStock

Exeter Cathedral

Exeter Cathedral, situated in central Devon, England, was built between 1112 and 1400. Its architecture blends Gothic and Norman styles, and its vaulted ceiling is one of the world's longest uninterrupted stone vaulted ceilings, making it a distinctive feature of the cathedral.

We've introduced what the Church of England is and its origins, hoping to provide a basic understanding of the UK's national religion. If you're interested in further exploring the UK's religious and historical aspects, make sure to visit various UK churches during your studies. Stay tuned to Cyclopes for more information on studying in the UK.

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