Discover what it means to be part of the Anglican communion: a church rooted in scripture, shaped by tradition, and engaged with reason.
Anglicanism is often described as a “via media” or middle way; keeping the balance between traditional catholic structures while adopting reformed theology. We embrace the richness of liturgy and sacrament and an episcopal polity, while honouring the authority of Scripture.
As Anglicans, we engage in thoughtful faith: one that embraces mystery, welcomes questions, and recognizes that faithful Christians can disagree while remaining in loving communion with one another.
Anglicans are Christians who belong to a worldwide family of churches called the Anglican Communion. Today, over 85 million Anglicans worship in 165 countries around the world.
We are the Anglican Church of Canada and in the Niagara region and beyond, we are the Diocese of Niagara – a community of over 80 parishes and 3 missions that includes the cities of Hamilton, Guelph, St. Catharines, Burlington, and Oakville in the regions of Niagara, Halton, Haldimand and Dufferin counties.
Anglicans value both traditional and contemporary thinking, beautiful liturgy, structured worship and room for the Holy Spirit to move. We’re catholic and protestant, traditional and progressive, reverent and accessible.
Anglican Faith
Scripture as the foundation of our faith, containing all things necessary for salvation
Two thousand years of Christian practice and wisdom, connecting us to the early church
God-given intellect and conscience to interpret and apply faith in our modern world
Core beliefs that unite us, explained in everyday language
The Trinity: We understand God as three persons in one – Father, Son (Jesus), and Holy Spirit.
Grace means God loves us and accepts us just as we are, not because we’re perfect. Our faith is a response to that love, not a requirement to receive it.
We believe Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully human. He lived, taught, healed, died on a cross, and rose from the dead. Through Jesus, we see what God is like – and the life God invites us to live. Jesus shows us that love, compassion, and justice are at the heart of a faithful life.
Christianity isn’t meant to be practiced alone. We gather to worship, pray, learn, serve, and support one another. The church is the community of people gathered by God, not the building. Together, we are Christ’s Body, called to live out Jesus’ Way of Love in the world.
Following Jesus means caring for others – especially those who are vulnerable, marginalized, or suffering. Faith without action is incomplete. We’re called to work for justice, peace, and the wellbeing of all creation.
Anglican Faith
Central to our worship and identity, is our prayer book. This is a collection of doctrine, liturgies, and prayers that provide a framework for daily prayer, and the Sacraments. The Book of Common Prayer, established in the 16th century is the foundation for the evolution and adaptation reflecting local contexts and theological developments that our liturgies have undergone.
In Canada we have the Book of Alternative Services (BAS). Introduced in 1985 the BAS offers contemporary language worship and language. It sits alongside the 1962 Book of Common Prayer which remains our authorized Prayer Book – which churches still use for services today.
The Diocese of Niagara is part of the Anglican Church of Canada, which is part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario, which is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion – over 85 million Christians in 165 countries, united by shared faith and mutual respect while celebrating diverse expressions of worship and culture.
Wondering what to expect at your first Anglican service? Get practical tips and reduce first-visit anxiety.
Ready to take next steps? Learn about baptism, confirmation, and joining the Anglican community.
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Anglican faith, worship, and beliefs.
Learn about the Diocese of Niagara, our mission, vision and the communities we serve.
