Liturgical Practice
In the primitive Church it was recognised that the Sacred Liturgy, especially the Eucharistic Celebration, had certain essential elements, which must be present. However, the words used and the gestures that accompanied them were left entirely to the discretion of the celebrating Bishop. As priests were added to the ranks of the clergy they were expected to celebrate the Eucharist according to their Bishop's ritual. This led to a plethora of rich and varied Liturgies, almost as many liturgies as Bishops. As time went on both Eastern and Western branches of the Church became more and more centralised and the Liturgy became more rigid in its structure.
Some "Independent" Churches attach themselves to a particular Liturgical Expression and denounce all others. We do not do this.
Whilst our Bishop uses the reformed Roman Ritual of the Second Vatican Council; he has given permission for any Rite of the Eucharist (or other Sacrament) which is, or has been, promulgated by any of the greater Churches of East or West, to be used freely by clergy according to pastoral needs. So, if a community has come to us from an Anglican tradition they can continue to use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer. Those from Roman background may use either Tridentine or Reformed liturgy in the language of their choice.
All Celebrations of Sacraments within the church take place under the leadership of an appropriate Minister (Bishop, priest or deacon) vested according to tradition for their role, and should follow closely the rubrics for the chosen rite.
