The Anglican Confession

Thirty-Nine Articles of the Church of England

The Thirty-Nine Articles are the historic confession of the Church of England, defining Anglican doctrine on the faith, the sacraments, and the relationship between church and state since 1563.

About the Anglican Confession

Everything you need to understand this historic confession — its origins, its theology, and its enduring place in the life of the Church.

Adopted 1563

Forged by the Church of England, the Anglican Confession has guided Christian thought and worship for centuries — a confession tested by time and affirmed by the Church.

Theological Clarity

The Anglican Confession answers the most essential questions of the Christian faith — who God is, who Christ is, and what the Church believes together. Explore it article by article.

One Faith, Shared Heritage

With 33,000 denominations and one Church, the historic creeds are our common ground. This site exists to make that shared heritage clearly explained and freely available to every believer, student, and seeker.

Our Mission

Why This Site Exists

The Thirty-Nine Articles are the historic confession of the Church of England, defining Anglican doctrine on the faith, the sacraments, and the relationship between church and state since 1563.

The Heavenly Network, in partnership with The Christian Chain, has developed this network of Church Creed and Confession sites in order to make the historic faith of the Church clearly explained, faithfully presented, and freely accessible to every believer, student, and seeker who wants to understand what the whole Church has always believed together.

"There is one body and one Spirit — just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call — one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all."

Ephesians 4:4–6

Anglican Tradition1563

Church of England

Latest Articles

Explore our most recent writing on this creed — its history, theology, and ongoing significance for the church today.

scriptureHistoric Anglican scroll depicting scripture and authority in the Thirty-Nine Articles

What the Thirty-Nine Articles Teach About Scripture and Authority

At the heart of Anglican doctrine is a bold claim: Scripture contains all things necessary for salvation. Explore what Articles VI through VIII teach about the Bible, tradition, and the creeds.

Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

By Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

Ordained Minister, M.Div.

Date

April 11, 2026

thomas cranmerPortrait of Archbishop Thomas Cranmer shaping the origins of Anglican doctrine

Thomas Cranmer and the Origins of Anglican Doctrine

No single figure shaped Anglican doctrine more profoundly than Thomas Cranmer. His theological vision, courage under fire, and ultimate martyrdom gave the Church of England its confessional soul.

Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

By Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

Ordained Minister, M.Div.

Date

April 4, 2026

thirty nine articlesHistory of the Thirty-Nine Articles — England's Reformation confession from Cranmer to Elizabeth I

The History of the Thirty-Nine Articles: England's Reformation Confession

From Henry VIII to Elizabeth I, the Thirty-Nine Articles were forged in the fires of the English Reformation. Trace their remarkable journey from political crisis to confessional landmark.

Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

By Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

Ordained Minister, M.Div.

Date

March 28, 2026