Episcopalian/Anglican Origins: 6 Things That Led to Development of Protestant Christian Denomination

The Episcopal/Anglican Protestant denomination came out of a 1500s reformation of the Christian Church in England. King Henry VIII had many disagreements with the pope which led to a break in relations. The main issue in the initial break had to do with who had the ultimate authority over church-related decisions.

Here are six things that led to the development of the Episcopalian/Anglican Protestant church:

ALERT: When Do You Think Christ Is Returning? Vote Now

1. 95 Theses: Before the Episcoplaian/Anglican Church was formed, Martin Luther in Germany caused waves with the "95 Theses" he tagged up on the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church. These items for discussion questioned the issuance of indulgences by the Catholic Church and are seen to have been the first spark of the Protestant Reformation.

2. King Henry VIII wanted to remarry: King Henry VIII of England was having a hard time siring a male heir to the throne. He wanted to divorce his wife and marry again, but the pope refused to bless this decision.

3. The Act of Supremacy: In 1534, the English Parliament declared Henry VIII the "Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England." This meant that the monarch made the final decisions regarding doctrinal issues and the appointment of bishops.

VOTE NOW: Is Christ Returning?

4. Queen Elizabeth's Role: After Henry's death, the future of what would become the Episcopal/Anglican Protestant denomination was in question until the ascendance of Queen Elizabeth I to the English throne. Queen Elizabeth re-established the Church of England with the reigning monarch at the head of the church in 1558.

5. English is spoken: The Episcopal/Anglican Protestant denomination was the first to hold English language communion services in 1579. The King James Version of the Bible — in English — was published in 1611.

6. The Book of Common Prayer: First developed in the late 1540s, this book outlines the liturgy and worship traditions of the Episcopal/Anglican Protestant denomination. The development and re-development of this book provided a backbone for the beliefs of the church.

URGENT: When Do You Think Christ Will Return? Vote Here Now!

Related Stories:

• Gay Episcopal Bishop Leads Prayer at White House Easter Event

• 1st Openly Gay Episcopal Bishop to Divorce Husband