The Episcopal Character of Anglicanism 

Why Bishops Matter for Our Life Together

One of the distinctive gifts of being Anglican is that we are an episcopal church. That simply means our life is ordered under the pastoral oversight of bishops. But behind that simple structure lies a rich biblical vision for healthy, connected, mission-minded churches.

1. Episcopal leadership serves the gospel, not tradition for tradition’s sake.

Authentic Anglicanism reminds us that bishops in the Anglican tradition exist not as ornamental positions, but as servants of Christ and His Word. Their role is grounded in Scripture’s pattern of pastoral oversight—ensuring sound teaching, guarding against error, and encouraging churches in faithful mission.

2. Bishops connect local churches to something bigger than themselves.

Through the ministry of bishops, parishes are reminded that we are not isolated communities doing our own thing. We belong to a wider fellowship—a shared confession, shared mission, and shared responsibility under Christ. This connection strengthens local churches and keeps us aligned with the faith once delivered to the saints.

3. Episcopal ministry protects and promotes gospel unity.

Episcopal structures are not about hierarchy for its own sake, but about unity—unity in doctrine, worship, and mission. Good episcopal oversight keeps the gospel central, keeps churches accountable to the Scriptures, and helps us walk together with integrity and clarity.

4. Episcopal oversight supports mission in practical ways.

Bishops teach, visit, encourage, ordain, and help churches steward their resources for gospel fruitfulness. When this is done well, congregations flourish, leaders are equipped, and the Church stays focused on reaching their local communities with Christ.

5. In the Diocese of Tasmania, this takes concrete shape.

Our bishops—like faithful Anglicans across the world—carry the responsibility of ensuring our churches are shaped by the Scriptures and active in mission. Their oversight supports our diocesan vision: “A church for Tasmania, making disciples of Jesus.”

As we partner with Bishop Richard (and Assistant Bishop Chris) and our wider diocesan family, we share in a mission that is larger than our parish alone. Episcopal leadership helps keep our eyes on Christ’s kingdom, not just our corner of it.

A Word for the Parish of Holy Trinity

As a parish, we benefit deeply from this Anglican way of being church. Our place within the diocesan fellowship means:

we are supported in faithful ministry

we are accountable to the gospel we profess

we are encouraged to join God’s mission across Tasmania

and we are united with brothers and sisters beyond our own congregation

Being Anglican means belonging—to Christ, to His Word, and to one another through episcopal care rooted in the gospel. 

Yours in Christ,
Lee Shirvill

Senior Minister
Parish of Hoy Trinity
Four Centres - All One in Christ Jesus

15 December 2025