As described in our Mission Statement, Via Media USA is an alliance of associations of laity and clergy committed to promoting and protecting the faith, unity, and vitality of The Episcopal Church as the American expression of Anglican tradition. Alliance members are independent groups that have joined in common cause to support The Episcopal Church and its traditional middle way—the via media. The via media perspective is a priceless gift from the Anglican tradition to an increasingly polarized world. We strive to be a voice for the ordinary Episcopalian who treasures the church as a sacramental and service community that rejoices in multiple understandings of God’s call to us.

The groups that make up Via Media USA began forming as early as 2002, as it became increasingly clear that certain Episcopal Church dioceses were becoming intolerant of views that differed from that of the bishop and other diocesan leaders. The concern increased with the decision to consecrate Canon Gene Robinson as Bishop of New Hampshire in 2003. Members of the developing groups began to talk to one another, and, in March 2004, a meeting was held in Atlanta, Georgia, at which Via Media USA was organized. Since then, Via Media USA and its allied groups have worked for a diverse, unified Episcopal Church.

Allied groups in San Joaquin, Pittsburgh, and Fort Worth have played pivital roles in maintaining their respective dioceses in the face of recent schisms. Other groups are prepared to act in similar roles should that be necessary. We pray, however, that that will not be necessary, and that Via Media USA can get about a longer term mission of educating both Episcopalians and non-Episcopalians about the history, polity, theology, and mission of The Episcopal Church.