What is the difference between an Anglican and an Episcopalian?

Answer 1

The Anglican church is a worldwide group of churches that are, what is called,, 'in communion with each other'. In other words, they are all part of the Anglican denomination (as opposed to Roman Catholic, Lutheran, baptist, Methodist, and so on). The Episcopalian Church in the USA is one of these Anglican churches. Episcpalian simply means 'having bishops in its heirarchy'. Other Anglican churches include many churches in Africa, the church of England, the Scottish Episcopalian Church, The Church in Wales, the Church of Ireland, The Church in Europe and so on.

Answer 2

Anglicans and Episcopalians both belong to the Anglican Communion but are affiliated with different provinces. Anglicans are part of the Church of England or its affiliated branches worldwide, while Episcopalians are members of the Episcopal Church in the United States. The theological beliefs and practices of both groups are quite similar, with a focus on tradition, scripture, and a hierarchy of clergy.

Answer 3

The Anglican church recognizes the British sovereign as head of the church, while Episcopalians do not. This way, after Independence the American Anglican communion could preserve its theology, liturgy and organization by changing only the primacy. Note, that small "e" episcopal refers to bishop. Thus, American Methodists, who are governed by bishops, are an episcopal church, as are Lutherans with bishops.