The lives of the saints are the foundation of our faith. They are the ones who lived for God, and who are able to show us how to live. We can learn from them how to live a good life, and even how to follow in their footsteps.
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Anglicans
The ‘three-legged stool’ is a concept used to demonstrate the balance of Anglican doctrine. It contrasts with Roman Catholic doctrine.
The three legs are Scripture, Tradition, and Reason. Anglicans agree that authority comes from these three sources. However, the Scripture alone cannot provide the answer to all questions. In fact, they believe that all things are needed for salvation.
For instance, sacraments confirm faith in Christ. According to Anglicans, a sacrament is a visible sign of God’s grace. They are also considered to be signs of God’s good will.
The Prayer Book is an important expression of the worship of Anglicans. This book contains prayers for every season of life. Besides the Prayer Book, historic Anglican formularies include the 39 Articles of Religion and the Ordinal.
Traditionally, the Bible was regarded as the only reliable source of truth. However, the Church of England has not been able to protect itself from innovation. A recent revisionist trend has caused some to question the Second Vatican Council.
Anglican churches
The Anglican and Orthodox churches have a long and storied history of cooperation and dialogue. Both have a vested interest in resolving theological and practical issues. They both acknowledge the authority of the Holy Bible, and both are committed to dialogue, though it is possible for some Christians in the two churches to disagree on a particular topic.
There are several reasons for this. First, both have a rich liturgical heritage, a heritage that is an expression of gospel. Second, both have a large number of missionaries, many of whom are Anglicans. Third, both have been affected by the Russian revolution, which led to unofficial contacts between the two groups.
In the first years of the twentieth century, Anglicans and Orthodox began to discuss some of their differences. This dialogue was intended to solve problems between the two churches. Initially, these discussions took place in the 1920s and 1930s. Since the Second World War, these discussions have recommenced.
Lutheran churches
There are many holy days and festivals in the Lutheran Church calendar. These days of celebration help to remind worshipers of the great events in salvation history. Likewise, the sacraments themselves help to reinforce faith. They are proof of God’s love for men.
One of the most important elements of the Liturgy is the proper administration of the Sacraments. This is best done by ordained priests. The Lutheran book of Concord states that the consecration of the Lord’s Supper must be performed by a presiding minister.
One of the most notable features of the liturgies of the historic Church is the use of traditional symbols. Traditional symbols are used to harmonize the outward appearance of the sanctuary and the outward actions of the pastor.
Some of the most important of these elements are the Nicea Creed, the Ordinary of the Mass, and the proper proclamation of the Gospel. Almost all of the Lutheran liturgical texts offer a sound framework for these components.
Catholics
The lives of the saints are central to the history of the Church. Orthodox Christians and Roman Catholics share reverence for them. But there are differences in how they view them.
Saints are generally recognized by a local community. They are thought to be able to intercede for mankind. This historic Christian practice dates back to the earliest days of Christianity. However, the Protestant movement has made it a major target of attack in the last few hundred years.
Both Eastern and Western Churches differ on their understanding of the road to sainthood. Some emphasize the traditional New Testament meaning of the word, while others use it to refer to born-again Christians. Regardless of the way the word is used, the common principles of sainthood are illustrated by the proofs of heroic virtue.
The Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church both believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. But the Eastern Churches have a much more formal process for determining sainthood.
