Farewell to Anglicanism

Herbert Carson is fondly remembered by many as a fine preacher, a pastor and a friend. His keen intellect was matched by a warm and gracious spirit; we give thanks to God for the testimony of his life and ministry.

Of his writings, the most personal was the little book Farewell to Anglicanism - an autobiographical account of his resignation as Vicar of St. Paul's Church, Cambridge, and secession from the Anglican Church in November 1964. Some extracts are reprinted here (with page references to the H.E. Walter edition of 1969). They are reminders of Herbert's personal struggle, and raise issues which are still relevant today.

Ordination vows

One of the themes of the book is the need for honesty and integrity. In good conscience, Herbert knew that he had taken ordination vows which required him to use the Anglican liturgy and to work within the episcopal structure of church government. To avoid these obligations would be as dishonest as those liberal churchmen who swear to uphold the 39 Articles and then ignore them.