About
the Episcopal Church St.
Philip's in the Hills is a congregation of the wider Episcopal Church
which, in turn, is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The word "episcopal"
means "of or pertaining to a bishop." This refers to the basic structure
of the Episcopal Church which centers around regional areas (dioceses), each of
which is led by an elected bishop who oversees the parishes (local churches) in
the diocese. St. Philip's is in the Diocese of Arizona, led by the Rt.
Rev. Kirk Stevan Smith, Bishop. Part of the Bishop's regular duties is Confirmation,
in which the "laying on of hands" by the Bishop signifies affirmation
of a person's baptismal covenant. Both confirmation (of the laity) and Ordination
(of the clergy) carry out the practice of "apostolic succession," in
which each bishop is, symbolically, a successor to the historic leadership that
is linked to Jesus himself. Each
parish in the Episcopal Church is led by an ordained priest, commonly referred
to as the rector. Other priests may also serve a parish as associates. In the
Episcopal Church the roles of bishop, priest, and deacon are carried out by both
men and women. Episcopalians
gather together each week for worship, for fellowship and learning, and to prepare
for service in the world.  Episcopal
belief is rooted in seeking to live with and honor four pathways to truth:
- Scripture,
- Tradition,
- Reason, and
- Experience.
This belief
recognizes the inevitable and sometimes disturbing tensions encountered in seeking
to balance these pathways. It recognizes the need to constantly test one pathway
against the other, and to faithfully "walk and talk" together as a community
of seekers, however varied its beliefs. At
St. Philip'sThe
wide menu of activities, classes, and services at St. Philip's reflects the diverse
nature of Episcopalians, and attests to the strong bonds which link them together
as a community of seekers. The
people of St. Philip's are, themselves, both diverse and inclusive, in terms of
age, religious background, economic levels, and social involvement. The ambiance
of its campus and of its worship blend seamlessly with its informality of dress,
conversation, learning, and fellowship. You are invited to come and see! Some
resources on the Internet: Episcopal
Church
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/
Anglicans
Online
http://www.anglicansonline.org/
a popular source of timely information The
Episcopal Diocese of Arizona
http://www.azdiocese.org/ Anglican
Communion (UK)
http://www.anglicancommunion.org/
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