George Dundas Carleton
The King’s Highway: A Simple Exposition of the Catholic Faith
Published in 1924, The King’s Highway: A Simple Exposition of the Catholic Faith serves as a definitive Anglo-Catholic manual of instruction. It was designed to provide a clear, systematic, and accessible explanation of Christian doctrine, liturgy, and practice from a High Church Anglican perspective.
Key Themes and Structure:
Sacramental Theology: Carleton emphasizes the “Seven Sacraments” as the primary channels of divine grace, with particular focus on the Real Presence in the Eucharist and the importance of Sacramental Confession.
The Nature of the Church: The text argues for the Apostolic Succession and the Church of England’s identity as a living branch of the Catholic Church, distinct from Roman Catholicism yet sharing its ancient heritage.
Practical Devotion: It provides rigorous guidance on the “Rule of Life,” including daily prayer, fasting, and the moral obligations of a believer.
Creedal Orthodoxy: It breaks down the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds, explaining complex theological concepts (The Trinity, the Incarnation) in language suitable for the laity without sacrificing scholarly integrity.
Biography: George Dundas Carleton (1877–1960)
George Dundas Carleton was a prominent Anglican priest, scholar, and member of the Society of the Sacred Mission (SSM). While The King’s Highway (1924) is his most enduring work, his life was defined by missionary zeal and theological education.
Education & Early Ministry: Educated at Keble College, Oxford, he was deeply influenced by the Oxford Movement.
Missionary Work: He served extensively in South Africa (Modderpoort) with the SSM, where he contributed to the training of indigenous clergy and the establishment of disciplined monastic life in a missionary context.
Theological Stance: Carleton was a “Prayer Book Catholic,” staunchly defending the 1662 Book of Common Prayer while interpreting it through the lens of historic Catholic tradition.
Legacy: His writings remained staples for Anglican ordinands and lay catechists for decades, known for their “no-nonsense” approach to dogma and their unwavering commitment to the Anglican via media.
