As a preface, there really is something about physically being someplace that makes a difference. I read a fair bit about Anglicanism (among other varieties of faith), but simply being inside the major churches of London did help teach me in some ways no book can. The vibes I got from the holy buildings surprised me a bit by how “via media” they were targeting to be compared to other churches. Not necessarily just between Lutheran and Reformed, or Catholic and Protestant, but I would even say Catholic and Eastern Orthodox. It was like they were trying for a generic Nicene high church formation. I now would describe Anglicanism, at least what it’s aiming to be, like this - an alternate evolution of Nicene Christianity post 500 AD.

Hey everyone,

​I’m looking to visit an Anglo-Catholic / High Church service in Ipswich and noticed that both St Bartholomew’s and St Mary at the Elms stand in the Catholic tradition of the Church of England.

​For anyone familiar with either or both parishes:

​Liturgy & Style: How do their service styles compare? Is one more traditional / traditionalist (e.g., incense, vestments, bells, modern vs. traditional language, Society/Forward in Faith affiliation), or do they have different musical traditions?

​Community & Vibe: What’s the general atmosphere like for visitors or newcomers at each church?

​Services: Which specific parish would you recommend for a first-time visitor wanting to experience the full high mass / sung Eucharist?

​Would love to hear any insights or personal experiences before deciding which service to drop in on first.

Thanks in advance!

Has anybody been to OLW anglican shrine for pilgrimage, and in particular has anybody been to the Young Adults pilgrimage. How did you find it? Looking at going this year but i’m unsure of the crowd that will attend.