Exploring Our Common Heritage:
An Ecumenical Journey to Rome & Canterbury

Ecumenical relationships between Roman Catholics and Episcopalians hold much promise as the two traditions share common theology and liturgy. Systematic evangelization of England took place at the initiative of Gregory the Great. He sent a monk from his own priory - Augustine - who landed in England in 597. Correspondence between Gregory and Augustine offer illuminating perspectives on the relationship between the local Church and Rome.

This program is designed to offer participants an opportunity to experience the commonality and differences between the Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions by visiting the historical centers of Rome and Canterbury.

The program includes guided sightseeing of historic sites, opportunities for attending liturgical celebrations, ecumenical programs, and free time to explore the cultural treasures of Rome, Canterbury and London.

Synopsis of Program

Our programs are tailored to the objectives of particular events. A suggested program includes four nights in Rome, two nights in Canterbury and two nights in London!

Rome

Historical & cultural context of early Christianity

Visits to sites such as the Basilica of S. Clemente, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and the Catacombs provide a tangible experience of the life and context of early Christianity at Rome. St. Clement's includes three levels of excavations going back to 1st century buildings in which the earliest Christians met and worshipped. Consider common liturgical history at these sites.

Institutions and developments of Roman Catholicism during the 15th and 16th Cent.

Visits to sites such as the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica underscore the political dynamics of Papal Rome and the vision of the Church that came into conflict with those in other parts of Europe—including England.

Visit the Anglican Center in Rome, St. Paul’s Inside the Walls (Anglican Church in Rome) - to explore current ecumenical activities between Roman Catholics and Episcopalians.

Canterbury

History of the early evangelization of England

Explore the history of the evangelization and early shape of Christianity in England. Visit the historic Canterbury Cathedral—place from which Augustine evangelized England. The original building of the 6th century was destroyed by fire in 1067 and rebuilt only to succumb to fire again in 1174, four years after Thomas Becket’s murder. The current structure includes construction from the 11th, 12th, 14th and 15th centuries. Visit St. Augustine’s Abbey, the Roman Museum (Roman excavations) and the Canterbury Heritage Museum— reflecting the various historical periods of Canterbury.

Development of medieval Christian beliefs and practices in England

Consider the common beliefs & practices of medieval Christianity in England with those of medieval Rome. Consider monasticism in the Anglican tradition—and the dissolution of the monasteries during the English Reformation. Opportunity to attend liturgies at the Cathedral and meet with ecumenical groups.

London

Exploration of the events that led to the establishment of the Church of England

Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and Palace. While visiting these sites, explore the events that led to the establishment of the Church of England and the dissolution of the monasteries. Explore current beliefs and practices of the Anglican Church and how it is rooted in and transcends English culture. Free time to explore the cultural treasures of London.