Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes?
The Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes, commonly referred to as the Anglican Communion Network (ACN), is a united, biblically driven missionary movement dedicated to bringing the "true and legitimate" expression of Anglicanism to North America, making disciples of Jesus Christ. ACN allows Episcopalians to remain in communion with the vast majority of the worldwide Anglican Communion who have declared either impaired or broken communion with the Episcopal Church USA. For many Episcopalians, the ACN has come to represent the hope for a return to the historic faith and order of Anglicanism.
Where and when did the ACN get its start?
The formation of the ACN was originally suggested by the Archbishop of Canterbury who encouraged us to form a network of confessing dioceses and parishes to support and encourage the life and ministry of those alienated by the actions of General Convention 2003. Initial plans for the ACN were formulated at a gathering of mainstream Anglican leaders (including four Primates) in London in November 2003.
A Memorandum of Agreement resulted from this meeting and was ultimately signed by 13 bishops of the Episcopal Church. The memorandum stated the intention of these bishops to begin taking steps toward organizing a network of "confessing" dioceses and congregations within ECUSA. The signing of the memorandum by a bishop did not indicate the formal joining of the network by his diocese.
The Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes was officially launched January 20, 2004, at the Network's Organizing Convocation held at Christ Church, Plano, Texas. That meeting included representatives from 12 Episcopal dioceses, as well as individuals from geographic regions and one non-geographic area that were designated as "Convocations." The gathering unanimously adopted a Structural Charter and affirmed a Theological Charter.
The Rt. Rev. Robert Duncan was elected Moderator of the new Network and will serve for a three-year term. The Organizing Convocation also elected a 12-member Steering Committee composed of individuals from across the country.
Why is ACN necessary and why should dioceses or parishes affiliate with it?
Following the egregious decisions made at General Convention 2003 in which the Episcopal Church abandoned 2000 years of biblical teaching and historical church order, there was a disconnect between the beliefs of the Episcopal Church and the worldwide Anglican Communion. As a result, 21 Provinces have declared either impaired or broken communion with ECUSA, and 14 Primates have recognized the ACN as the legitimate Anglican presence in North America. The ACN, therefore, provides a means for remaining connected with the Anglican Communion. At a time when Church leadership is failing, ACN will provide a way for dioceses and parishes to remain under orthodox leadership.
What is the distinction between the American Anglican Council and ACN, and what role does the AAC play in the ACN?
ACN is an ecclesial body, whereas the American Anglican Council is an advocacy organization dedicated to reforming the Episcopal Church. While they share a dedication to biblical authority, the Great Commission and the historic faith and order of Anglicanism, the two are separate entities. ACN is a link for dioceses and parishes. The AAC is an advocate for renewal of the Episcopal Church.
How is ACN a missionary organization?
As the Structural Charter explicitly states, the first and foremost goal of the ACN is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to carry out the mission of the Great Commission. ACN will work to bring into fellowship, with each other and with the Anglican Communion, "those who have left ECUSA and those who wish to explore the tradition and worship of Anglican orthodoxy." Clergy and laity alike will be sent into often unwelcoming territory to offer orthodox leadership and the truth of the Gospel to those who are isolated or lost. New congregations, partnered with the ACN, are being formed regularly. ACN will also continue to build its relationship with Anglican Global Mission Partners, which serves as its missionary arm.
Why affiliate with the ACN?
Affiliation with ACN gathers dioceses and congregations as a true and legitimate expression of Anglicanism. Association with ACN restores communion with the majority of the Anglican Communion who have severed ties with ECUSA. Affiliation with ACN allows dioceses, parishes and individual clergy to stand in solidarity upholding 2,000 years of Christian teaching, as well as Anglican faith and order.
What is the ACN's purpose and vision?
The Core Purpose of the Anglican Communion Network is to be a united missionary movement of Anglicans in fellowship with global Anglicanism, making disciples who make disciples of Jesus Christ in North America and to the ends of the earth.
ACN envisions being a missionary movement in North America of such irresistible spiritual power in Word and Sacrament that people are drawn to a personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ and become members of the Body of Christ, His Church. We will be known for our commitment to evangelical faith and catholic order.
What are the ACN's goals?
The Anglican Communion Network seeks to unite faithful, orthodox congregations and dioceses for Great Commission ministry. The ACN's Core Values are located here.
Why do you use the name Anglican Communion Network?
The Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes adopted the abbreviated title of Anglican Communion Network in an effort to curb confusion as shortened titles and acronyms began to spring up. A concise reference has enabled clear communication about the Network. For legal and jurisdictional purposes, ACN will retain its formal title.
What dioceses were present at the ACN's Organizing Convocation?
The dioceses represented at the Organizing Convocation were:
- Albany
- Central Florida
- Dallas
- Florida
- Fort Worth
- Pittsburgh
- Quincy
- Rio Grande
- San Joaquin
- South Carolina
- Springfield
- Western Kansas
How many dioceses have formally affiliated with ACN?
Ten dioceses have formally associated with ACN through ratification by their respective governing bodies:
- Albany
- Central Florida
- Dallas
- Fort Worth
- Pittsburgh
- Quincy
- Rio Grande
- San Joaquin
- South Carolina
- Springfield
How is the ACN funded?
The ACN is funded through the generous donations of parishes, dioceses, and individuals. Many who do not wish to send funds to the Episcopal Church's headquarters are redirecting them to the ACN, as well as to other mission organizations.