Come As You Are.

Whether you are just beginning to explore Catholicism or you've been on this journey your whole life, you are welcome here. We're an inclusive, open-hearted community where everyone can take part in meaningful worship and the Sacraments.

FREQUENTLY ASKED

Questions & Answers

I am divorced/LGBTQIA+/Other. Am I welcome here?

You are welcomed and loved. We embrace the full spectrum of God’s creation—welcoming people of every gender, race, nationality, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical ability, and relationship status, including those who are divorced or remarried. Each person is a beloved child of God, and every soul has a place in God’s house.


As part of the Old Catholic Communion, we believe our mission is to reflect God’s unconditional love. That means our doors—and our hearts—are open to anyone seeking a spiritual home.

We are honored to celebrate life’s sacred moments with you, including same-sex marriages, remarriages, and first-time weddings.

Can my friends and family who aren't Catholic participate in mass?

Yes, all are welcome to join in the celebration of the Liturgy of the Eucharist (Mass). Holy Communion is available to all baptized Christians who believe in the Real Presence of Christ in the Sacrament.

Do Old Catholics celebrate the sacraments?

We celebrate all seven traditional sacraments—Baptism, Reconciliation (Confession), Confirmation, Eucharist, Marriage, Holy Orders, and the Anointing of the Sick—according to valid and sacred practices.

What is St. Francis of Assisi's Affiliation?

Our local Bishop is head of the jurisdiction of our progressive Catholic faith community.

How does Roman Catholicism differ from Old Catholicism?

Put simply, we are an independent Catholic Church and not under the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. While we share many of the same sacraments and traditions, our structure and approach are distinctly different. In our community, all baptized Christians are welcome to receive Holy Communion—regardless of marital history, sexual orientation, or other boundaries that may have excluded them in the past. Our roots trace back to the Old Catholic Church of Utrecht, a movement that has stood for inclusivity and autonomy since the 1800s.

How similar are Roman and Old Catholic services?

If you were raised Roman Catholic, our Masses will feel warmly familiar. Our liturgy follows traditional Catholic form, complete with vestments, sacred vessels, statues, candles, and holy water. We have bishops, priests, and deacons just as in the Roman tradition. What sets us apart is that our clergy can be men or women, gay or straight, single, married, divorced, or remarried—reflecting the full diversity of God’s calling.

How is the national church governed?

The governance of the Parish is managed by a Parish Council, consisting of elected members, who vote on all operational matters (except for pastoral decisions, which are kept confidential and determined solely by the pastor), in accordance with the Parish By-Laws.

How do I become a member?

If you're interested in becoming a member of the St. Francis of Assisi Old Catholic Church community, we invite you to join us at Mass! Our parish members and clergy are happy to answer any questions you may have about our Church.

Understanding Old Catholicism

Discover the rich and fascinating history, traditions, and beliefs of the Old Catholic Church in this accessible and engaging guide. This booklet explores:

 

Ancient Roots, Modern Faith: How the Old Catholic Church draws inspiration from the early Christian community while embracing inclusivity and modern values.

 

The Church’s Mission Today: Its commitment to justice, peace, and care for the environment. Distinctive Practices: From Eucharistic ecclesiology to the collaborative role of bishops and the emphasis on inclusivity in ministry.

 

Whether you’re new to Old Catholicism or looking to deepen your understanding, this book offers a welcoming introduction to a faith tradition that treasures its past while engaging with the challenges of the present.

ALL ARE WELCOME.

We’re a vibrant, forward-thinking Catholic parish rooted in rich tradition and guided by an open, welcoming spirit. Our community embraces the fullness of God’s love by inviting everyone—without exception—to take part fully in our worship and sacraments.


We honor and celebrate the beautiful diversity of God’s creation, welcoming people of all races, genders, ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, physical abilities, and life circumstances—including those who are divorced or remarried. Every person is a reflection of God’s love and belongs in God’s house.


All who believe in Christ are joyfully invited to the Table of the Lord. As part of the Old Catholic Communion, we are called to be a living sign of God’s unconditional love—a spiritual home for all who are seeking one.