Our Old Catholic heritage
At Our Lady & St Sebastian's Catholic Church, we proudly embrace our Old Catholic identity. Discover the rich history, distinct beliefs, and enduring traditions that define our path of faith, inviting all who seek a deeper understanding.
What defines 'Old Catholic'?
The terms Old Catholic Church, Old Catholics, and Old-Catholic churches designate any of the groups of Western Christians who believe themselves to maintain in complete loyalty the doctrine and traditions of the undivided church but who separated from the See of Rome after the First Vatican Council of 1869–70. We stand firm in upholding these foundational beliefs and traditions.
A stand on papal authority
The expression 'Old Catholic' has been used from the 1850s by communions separated from the Roman Catholic Church over certain doctrines, primarily concerned with papal authority and infallibility. Some of these groups, especially in the Netherlands, had already existed long before the term. This historical divergence led to the formation of our distinct path.
Our communion and community
These churches are not in full communion with the Holy See. Member churches of the Union of Utrecht of the Old Catholic Churches (UU) are, however, in full communion with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sweden and the Anglican Communion. Many members of the Union of Utrecht of the Old Catholic Churches also hold membership in the World Council of Churches, reflecting our commitment to broader Christian unity and dialogue. We invite you to learn more and perhaps consider visiting us.
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