The Communion of Anglican Churches International (CACI)

Many of the world’s denominations generally pride themselves on their size, social influence, and financial wealth. Each of these is an expression of the human desire for affirmation and self-importance. The CACI, as the world’s institutions go, is minor in comparison. Our impact on society is limited to our ability to serve the needs of the individual. Our clergy are unsalaried, have no pension fund, and all our works are either sustained by self-supporting institutions or funded in whole or in part by the laity, deacons, priests, or bishops attached to our chaplaincies, ministries, parishes, and dioceses. Like St. Paul and St. Barnabas, our clergy are “tentmakers”. They work at secular jobs to provide for their living expenses while ministering in their calling.  

Notwithstanding our comparative status to the world’s standards of size and financial wealth, the CACI does have its own seminary. St. Alcuin House Seminary (SAHS) has a cooperative relationship with The Minnesota Graduate School of Theology, to which our scholars have access for purposes of research and study. Our clergy are not unlettered and hold advanced degrees in Divinity, Theology, and Philosophy, among others. That being said, we understand that even advanced degrees are not a sure defense against foolish opinions and poor decisions.  At SAHS, it is through the tolerant atmosphere of earnest and lively discussions that we find commonality of purpose as the unifying factor rather than a debater’s victory.

The CACI, through its seminary, seeks a balance between knowledge about our Anglican beliefs and the real practice of Christianity’s tenets. This is done through the application of three sources of authority: Scripture, Tradition, and Reason. To this, the CACI adds relational Experience in Christ. It is these standards that form the foundation of an institution built upon a rock that does not give way to every social norm pounding at the door.

The CACI emphasizes the Bible, the Creeds, the two primary sacraments (Baptism and the Eucharist), and the historic episcopate with its uninterrupted, direct succession of bishops from the apostles to the present day. In this continuity of apostolic authority and ministry, we use the Book of Common Prayer for worship, the Christian Calendar, and to celebrate the various sacraments, such as confirmation.  We focus on community through the practice of our Christian faith in prayer, worship, and social action that affects positive change within society.

Anglicanism is practiced from small charismatic prayer groups to the high church and its ceremony, priestly authority, and sacraments. To this degree, Anglican practice is adaptable depending on the needs of the congregation or group.  Our purpose is to feed Christ’s lambs, take care of His sheep, and feed His sheep. In that, St. Alcuin House Seminary trains up shepherds to lead Christ’s people into pastures that provide solid nourishment and sustenance.