Is Ely Cathedral Catholic or Protestant?

Ely Cathedral is currently Protestant, belonging to the Church of England, though it originated as a Catholic institution.

Historical Transformation and Current Affiliation

Ely Cathedral boasts a long and complex history that reflects the significant religious shifts in England. Its identity has evolved from its medieval foundations to its present-day role.

• Current Denomination: Today, Ely Cathedral serves as the Mother Church of the Diocese of Ely, part of the Church of England. The Church of England is a Protestant denomination established during the English Reformation in the 16th century, which separated from the authority of the Roman Catholic Pope. While it retains some elements of Catholic tradition in its liturgy and structure, its theological foundations are distinctly Protestant.
• Previous Denomination: For centuries before the Reformation, Ely Cathedral functioned as a Benedictine monastery, operating under the doctrines and authority of the Roman Catholic Church. Much of its magnificent architecture and historical legacy date back to this Catholic period.

Key Facts About Ely Cathedral's Religious Affiliation

To clarify its current and past religious identity, the following table summarizes key details:

The "Broad church" tradition signifies that the Church of England encompasses a wide range of theological perspectives and practices, including those with more Anglo-Catholic leanings, while remaining distinct from the Roman Catholic Church. This historical transition from a Catholic monastic foundation to a Church of England cathedral underscores the profound religious changes that shaped England's spiritual landscape.