To Be a Christian: An Anglican Catechism

Why a Catechism?

Two thousand years ago, in the land of Palestine, Jesus of Nazareth, God incarnate and Israel’s Messiah, called His followers into a life-giving relationship with Himself and His Father. After His death and resurrection, He commissioned them to make disciples of all nations, promising to be with them always and empowering them with His Holy Spirit. Rooted in God’s revelation to Israel, the apostolic witness recorded in the New Testament continues to shape and define the faith of Christians in every age.

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From the earliest centuries of the Church, those preparing for Baptism were formed through the catechumenate, a season of instruction (catechesis) in Scripture, prayer, and holy living. This pattern of forming disciples flourished again in the Reformation era, when Anglicans renewed the ancient practice of catechesis as central to Christian life and mission.

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As members of the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church, Anglicans stand within this living tradition of faith. Our story stretches from the missionary zeal of St. Augustine of Canterbury and St. Patrick, through the reforming courage of Archbishop Thomas Cranmer, to the evangelical witness of Henry Martyn, the mystical insight of Julian of Norwich, and the enduring wisdom of C.S. Lewis. This sacred heritage continues today in a global Communion united by common prayer, sacramental life, and fidelity to the Word of God.

 

At the heart of Anglican faith is the primacy of Holy Scripture, the inspired Word of God, containing all things necessary for salvation (2 Timothy 3:16; Articles of Religion VI). Yet Scripture is read within the Church’s living tradition, illuminated by the Holy Fathers, the Creeds, and the Councils of the undivided Church. The Book of Common Prayer (1662) and the Ordinal express this faith in worship, shaping doctrine and devotion through Scripture woven into liturgy.

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This catechism stands in continuity with that tradition. It presents the essential foundations of Christian faith: the Apostles' Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, and the Ten Commandments, alongside an introduction for those new to the Gospel. Designed for both personal study and parish instruction, it seeks to form disciples in the way of Christ through Scripture, prayer, and the sacraments.