Thread by @CAHutch1990

I'm Presbyterian but this about to be some big Anglican tweets right now. I found an old letter from my Dad to me in 1989, in which he responded to my question about why he stuck with the Episcopal church, and what he desired me to be. Here are portions of his answer: 1/12

"Most of all, and I stress MOST, I want you to always follow the Christian Way. As far as denominations go, it's true, I prefer that you continue in the family tradition of belonging to the greater Anglican Community." 2/

(Dad grew up at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Summerville, SC - where his ashes will soon be interred. He was very involved as an acolyte, etc):

"By the time I left for the USNA, I had memorized the Morning Prayer and Communion Services from the 1928 Prayer Book." 3/

.... I didn't realize, however, how much the liturgy really meant to me until I was commissioned and away from a home church.... 4/

.... In remote places such as Morocco, Gilbratar, Spain, etc., I was able to comfortably attend... an Anglican Church where there familiarity of the service eased my worship anxieties and meant much to me. 5/

I enjoy the congregational participation in the services far more than simply listening to a lengthy prayer by a worship leader. I also like the readings from the Holy Scriptures which take place at every Episcopal service. 6/

All is not well with the Episcopal Church, however, and I must confess I am often upset at some of the things that occur... in the name of the church. 7/

The freedom to express ideas is a part of the attraction of the church.... but I see much original dogma coming back full circle after wheeling about in free thinking exercises that often, I think, stray from the truth.... 8/

.... I happen to like some of the free expression allowed and that also is some of the mystery of the Church. 9/

The Presbyterians are locked into different patterns, it seems, depending on which group you belong to. I like their basic theology, but am not too comfortable with their (lack of) liturgy in their services. 10/

Having said all that and presenting my reasons for sticking with the Episcopal Church, I want to repeat my lead in - that you continue to push forward in your Christian walk and I will continue to support you, no matter which denomination you choose to worship with."

Love, Dad

(Post-script: for doctrinal reasons, Dad did eventually leave for the PCA, where he served as a Deacon for over 20 years.) 12/

As a bonus, here are family heirlooms from my maternal great-grandfather, Presiding Bishop John Murray: his bed; an oil lamp he converted to electric; some log furniture he built; compotes given in 1924 in celebration of his 30th year in ministry - one from laity, one from clergy