In this short blog post, the author posits a modified understanding of Apostolic Succession than is often times held within more traditional Anglican circles. While there is a diversity of thought on the importance and mechanisms for the transmission of ordered ministry, the view held here would likely be described as a more “Protestant” or even novel understanding of the position.
This article provides an overview of the historicity and continuity of the episcopacy from the Anglican perspective. It posits a positive case for the transfer of apostolic authority and responsibility from the original Apostles of Christ to the subsequent generations of bishops.
Bishop Charles E. Cheney served as the second Presiding Bishop of the Reformed Episcopal Church (REC).
In this chapter, the author argues that the theological position regarding the employment of an episcopal governance in the REC is practical in nature. However, the historical acceptance of episcopacy cannot be disputed either. The view he argues for is that the episcopacy is not essential to the church, but due to its early adoption and longstanding effectiveness, should be maintained and promoted.
episcopi ecclesiarum protestantium