It was forty-nine years ago that Bishop
James Parker Dees founded our Anglican Orthodox Church. Like the Reformers of old, Bishop Dees came
to the unavoidable and uncomfortable but very clear conclusion the modern
church had become corrupt, more than that, heretical. While the basics were there, there was a clear need for
reforming the church into conformation with Scripture. As in the 1500s, the church was in serious need
of reformation. At the time, few in
positions of authority grasped the need.
Most of them were more interested in their trappings of power. James
Parker Dees was the Reformer of our times. He managed to begin the successful reformation process which
goes on to this day. He
established a church in “perfect conformation with Scripture” as they say.
While we acknowledge it is not
truly perfect, the leadership of the AOC has been dedicated to its continual
improvement and perfection. Like James
Parker Dees, the current leadership is all about Him and not them.
As Bishop Jerry said, “Today and
for ever, we are thankful to God for all the Reformers, in particular James
Parker Dee. Were it not for his
great courage and sacrifice of Bishop Dees, I would have no church to attend
which I could feel free to serve in good conscience. He gave us a church that continues to honor and serve our
Lord Jesus Christ!”
