Dear Brothers+

From the Lambeth Conference of 1930:

'We have declared that the Doctrine of the Anglican Church is
authoritatively expressed in the Book of Common Prayer, and that the meaning
of the XXXIX Articles must be interpreted in accordance with the Book of
Common Prayer.'

Having said that, the Lambeth Conferences still affirm the theological and 
ecclesial necessity of the XXXIX Articles. All orthodox Anglicans believe 
that the Articles are an authoritative statement of doctrinal teaching and 
practice, and that includes genuine BCP Anglican Catholics. This Anglican, 
who espouses the fullness of the catholic tradition, unhesitatingly accepts 
the Articles and would subscribe to them if asked. In a speech given to the 
US Anglican Congress in January 2004, Bishop Ray Sutton once remarked, to 
paraphrase, that the Articles of Religion are a quintessential Anglican 
formulary, but they are a formulary open to interpretation by the Church. He 
cited Tract XC as a received interpretation of the XXXIX Articles, that is, 
one that is currently held by a significant number of Anglicans and has 
enjoyed an historical usage. He clearly implied that the Tract XC 
interpretation, like that of Griffith-Thomas or others, is legitimate for 
Anglicans. The fact is that we all have the Articles and we all profess 
them. From the sixteenth century forward, we always have and always will 
interpret the Articles in different ways, for such is the nature of a 
document of peace designed to hold together a comprehensive yet united 
Church. But the key to a truly authentic interpretation of the Articles is 
the same key for an authentic interpretation of the whole deposit of Faith, 
including Holy Scripture itself: Liturgy. The one canon, two testaments, 
three creeds, first four general councils, and the first five centuries are 
all enshrined and perpetuated in the Liturgy. Prayer Book Catholics and 
Prayer Book Evangelicals are united in one Church because of what they 
share, the Prayer Book. Our common affirmation of the BCP tradition as the 
keystone to doctrinal application would go a long way to quiet controversy 
and bring that unanimity of doctrine and practice we all so heartily desire. 
Just another, rather reiterated thought. God bless you!

Chad+