Episco-what?
Being University of Chicago Episcopalians, we could go on and on about the birth of our religion, but you don’t want to hear it, so here’s the short version: Once upon a time, King Henry VIII of England decided he didn’t want to be married to his wife anymore. Thus, in place of sons, the Anglican Church was born.
Fast forward about five hundred years. The Episcopal Church of America, the United States’ version of Anglicanism, has come a very long way, and today Episcopalians, their practice rooted strongly in traditional Anglican ritual, are (in)famous for their strong commitment to issues of social justice and personal spirituality. Typical Episcopalians enjoy drinking tea, going to protests, reading the Book of Common Prayer, spontaneously singing choruses of “Hail Thee Festival Day” and other marvelous hymns, and just generally being Anglophiles, but they are also equally committed to looking carefully for the work of God in their own lives and the lives of others. Being at the University of Chicago, we value deeply the Life of the Mind and are committed to integrating the intellect with the heart, soul, and body. The Episcopal community at Brent House is just that, a group of students who are as committed to what inspires and/or frustrates them in their studies and in the world as they are to developing their own spiritual lives in relationship with others on similar journeys.
Despite (or because of) our strong traditional Anglicanism, we are open and welcoming to all people from whatever religious or faith traditions (or lack thereof) who wish to join with us in our worship and celebration of God. Finally, we are always excited to meet new people and to join in community with them! The Episcopal Church Welcomes You – we really mean it!
