Ending Erastianism: The Influence of the American Model on Anglicanism in the Empire

Abstract

When the American Revolution resulted in the severing of ties between the American church and the Church of England, a new form of church governance, not under State control, became necessary. This article examines how the resulting ecclesiological structure of voluntary compact and governance by both clergy and laity, soon spread to other British colonies. This new model proved itself to be a vital and effective force in bringing Anglicanism to new cultures and environments.