WHAT IS THE TRADITION OF AN ANGLICAN ORATORY?
Anglicanism is one of the oldest expressions of the Christian faith, alongside the Roman Catholic and, Orthodox, Anglicans are the third largest Christian tradition in the world found in over 165 countries. Anglicanism is sometimes referred to as the “middle way” between Catholicism and Protestantism, and Anglicans sometimes describe themselves as “Catholic but reformed.” The Anglican Communion is a “global family of national and regional churches” who share historical ties to the Church of England and continue to be connected by “bonds of affection”. One of the most important understandings about Anglican practice and belief is the value of Scripture, Tradition and Reason. Our foundations are in the Sacred Scripture and the Book of Common Prayer, which is first and foremost a call to be a people of prayer.
Oratories are part of the church in Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism and Lutheranism . The mission of the Oratory across these traditions is similar with a unique gifting, style and charism for each . Anglican leaders in the Oratory movement have been leaders such as Deacon Nicholas Ferrar of Little Giddings and John Henry Newman of Oxford ( now a saint). Simply put : All laity, deacons, priests and bishops should bring the gospel to the people with the spirit of the evangelist, the prayerfulness of a mystic, the mercy the Good Samaritan and the humility of a servant.
We have full members and Associates in the Anglican Union who are part of the Oratory family. WE all keep a Rule of Life and commit themselves to attend the Holy Eucharist on Sundays and some weekdays (where possible), we pray regularly the Daily Office and are committed to be regular in alms-giving (financial support to the Confraternity), praying daily for the ministry of each Oratory.