Episcopal and Anglican
The Episcopal Church is the American member of the worldwide Anglican Communion, whose roots are in the Church of England. The Anglican Church in North America and other Anglican bodies are more conservative churches in the same tradition. Both worship from a Book of Common Prayer and are led by bishops.
The two books
In the pews you will find two books: the red Book of Common Prayer, with the words of the service, and the blue Hymnal. Many churches print everything in the bulletin instead, so you don't need to juggle books. Page numbers are announced or printed.
The Holy Eucharist
- The Word of God: an opening hymn and procession, prayers, readings from the Old Testament, a Psalm, the New Testament and the Gospel (for which everyone stands), a sermon of 10 to 20 minutes, the Nicene Creed and the Prayers of the People.
- The Peace: everyone greets their neighbors with "Peace be with you". Expect handshakes and a few minutes of friendly chatter.
- The Holy Communion: the offering, the Eucharistic prayer, the Lord's Prayer and communion at the altar rail.
- A blessing, a closing hymn and the dismissal.
Episcopalians stand to sing and praise, sit to listen, and kneel to pray, but practice varies and sitting is always fine. Some people bow or cross themselves at certain moments; you don't need to.
Communion
All baptized Christians are welcome to receive communion. You walk to the altar rail, stand or kneel, and hold out your hands for the bread; the cup of wine is then offered. You may drink from it, dip the bread in it, or touch its base and let it pass. To receive a blessing instead, cross your arms over your chest.