FAQ and Other Matters of Concern

Are Old Catholic Priests allowed to marry?

Celibacy is optional in most Old Catholic jurisdictions.  Priests in our jurisdiction may marry, may remain single, or may choose a commitment of celibacy.

Our jurisdiction encourages men or women who may be called by God to the priesthood.

Can I take Communion in an Old Catholic Service if I’m not a Member?

Old Catholics believe that the bread of wine of communion is transformed into the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.  This great mystery is the center of our faith. However, we do not deny the Eucharist to those who may not have a full appreciation of our Eucharistic theology. 

Our communion is an open one – all are welcome at our Lord’s table. 

Do I have to go to Confession in the Old Catholic Church?

Confession or Reconciliation is a sacrament in the Old Catholic Church.  This does not mean that confession must be administered by a priest on a one-on-one basis.  A priest is always available if a someone needs the rite administered in private.

However, the sacrament of reconciliation is as close as closing your eyes and turning to our Lord yourself and asking forgiveness.  The sacrament is also included in the Penitential Rite of the Mass as we ask our Lord to forgive our sins.

Do Old Catholics follow the Pope?

Old Catholics are not under the jurisdiction of the Pope.

We respect the Pope as one of the major patriarchs; but we reject the teaching of papal infallibility.

What do Old Catholics think of Mary?

We love Mary the Mother of our Lord.  She is one of many saints who prays for us before the Throne of God.  We agree with the title of Theotokos or “God Bearer” conferred on the Blessed Mother by the Council of Ephesus.  This title confirms the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ.

However, we do not worship the Blessed Mother or any saint.  Devotions that are more worship than veneration of a saint are condemned by the Old Catholic Church.  We honor the saints; we ask for their intercession; but, all glory is with God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. 

What is an Old Catholic Mass like?

Some jurisdictions will use the Old Dutch Mass, which is similar to the Tridentine Mass. Some will use the Tridentine, and others will use a format that is in modern language. 

Our parish follows a format in modern language.

An Old Catholic Mass is always “High Church,” we are never “Low Church.”

 How does the Old Catholic Church view other Christian denominations?

Old Catholics view other Christian Churches (even those whom we may disagree with on numerous issues) as our brothers and sisters in Christ.

We strive to work with other denominations toward the common good.  We have always been ecumenical in our approach.

May I remarry after a divorce?

We believe that our Lord wants us to take the vows of marriage seriously.  That being said, many times mistakes are made and individuals divorce for that reason.  The Old Catholic Church does permit another marriage after a divorce.

Is Contraception Wrong?

The Old Catholic Church does not condemn contraception.  In this day and time, individuals may have to postpone having children for financial reasons or for many other reasons.  Contraception is personal decision.

Do Old Catholic Churches Condemn Gays, Lesbians or Transgendered Persons?

In our jurisdiction we welcome the GLBT community.  We not discriminate membership, nor do we discriminate against those who may be called to the priesthood.

Does the Old Catholic Church perform Same Sex Unions?

In our jurisdiction a priest will bless a same sex union.  In a state that permits same sex marriage, an Old Catholic Priest in our jurisdiction will perform the ceremony.  It should be noted, although same sex unions may not be regarded as legal in certain states, our Old Catholic jurisdiction regards such unions sacramentally as Marriage.

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